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Tokyo, Japan
Start in Tokyo to beat jet lag and soak in the city energy. Explore Shinjuku, Shibuya, and Asakusa's Senso-ji Temple. Don't miss a ramen crawl in Ikebukuro and teamLab Planets in Toyosu.
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Kawaguchiko, Japan
Lake Kawaguchi offers stunning winter views of snow-capped Mt. Fuji, especially magical in January. Stay in a lakeside ryokan and enjoy an outdoor onsen with Fuji as your backdrop. The Chureito Pagoda viewpoint at dawn is absolutely breathtaking.
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Matsumoto, Japan
Matsumoto Castle — one of Japan's most beautiful original castles — looks stunning dusted in winter snow. Stroll the Nawate-dori frog street and browse the charming Nakamachi district's sake shops and galleries. Try soba noodles here, a local specialty made with Shinshu buckwheat.
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Nagano, Japan
Nagano city is a quick but rewarding stop anchored by the magnificent Zenko-ji Temple, one of Japan's most important Buddhist sites. The atmospheric approach lined with stone lanterns is especially evocative in winter. Pick up oyaki (stuffed dumplings) from vendors along the temple approach.
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Shibu Onsen, Japan
This enchanting Edo-era hot spring village is one of Japan's most atmospheric onsen destinations — the inspiration for Spirited Away. Guests staying at traditional ryokans can hop between nine public bathhouses wearing yukata and wooden geta sandals. Nearby Jigokudani Monkey Park lets you watch wild snow monkeys soaking in thermal pools — pure magic.
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Kanazawa, Japan
Often called 'Little Kyoto,' Kanazawa survived WWII bombing and retains beautifully preserved samurai and geisha districts. Kenroku-en garden is considered one of Japan's top three gardens and is hauntingly beautiful in winter with yukitsuri rope supports on the trees. The Omicho Market is the place to splurge on fresh Dungeness-style crab and sushi — winter is peak crab season.
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Shirakawa-go, Japan
This UNESCO World Heritage village of steep thatched-roof gassho-zukuri farmhouses is absolutely magical under January snowfall. The Ogimachi viewpoint offers a postcard-perfect panorama of the entire snow-covered hamlet. Visit midweek to avoid weekend crowds and consider an overnight stay in one of the working farmhouse guesthouses.
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Takayama, Japan
Takayama's beautifully preserved Sanmachi Suji old town district of dark-wood merchant houses feels like stepping back into Edo-period Japan. Sample sake at local breweries marked by cedar ball (sugidama) signs, and visit the atmospheric morning markets even in winter. Hida Folk Village open-air museum showcases traditional mountain farmhouses just outside town.
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Tokyo, Japan
Return to Tokyo for a final shopping blitz and any must-do meals you missed — Tsukiji Outer Market for breakfast and depachika basement food halls for omiyage gifts. Spend an evening in Ginza or Roppongi for a romantic farewell dinner. The city's efficient Narita or Haneda airport connections make for a smooth return to the Bay Area.