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Tokyo, Japan
Start your journey in Tokyo by exploring the atmospheric alleys of Yanaka, one of the city's last old-town neighbourhoods. Don't miss Senso-ji temple in Asakusa and treat yourself to fresh sushi at Tsukiji Outer Market. The city's JR and metro networks make getting anywhere effortless.
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Nagoya, Japan
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Takayama, Japan
Takayama's Sanmachi Suji district is one of Japan's best-preserved Edo-period merchant townscapes, filled with sake breweries and craft shops. Explore the morning markets (Jinya-mae and Miyagawa) for local produce and pickles. Reach it by the scenic JR Hida express train from Matsumoto.
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Kyoto, Japan
Nikko is a beautifully ornate mountain town easily reached by the Tobu Limited Express from Asakusa station. The lavish Tosho-gu shrine complex and surrounding cedar forests are breathtaking, especially in late spring. Stroll Shinkyo Bridge and try yuba (tofu skin), a local delicacy.
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Nara, Japan
Nara Park is home to hundreds of freely roaming sacred deer and the colossal Todai-ji temple housing Japan's largest bronze Buddha. The atmospheric Naramachi neighbourhood has beautifully converted machiya townhouses and local craft shops. It's an easy 45-minute train ride from Kyoto on the Kintetsu line.
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Hiroshima, Japan
This UNESCO World Heritage village is famous for its dramatic gassho-zukuri farmhouses with steep thatched roofs designed to shed heavy snow. Wander the quiet lanes and stay overnight in a traditional farmhouse guesthouse (minshuku) for an unforgettable experience. Buses from Takayama make the journey easy and scenic.