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Tokyo, Japan
Start in the electric capital — explore Shinjuku, Shibuya crossing, and Senso-ji temple in Asakusa. Don't miss ramen in Fuunji or sushi at Tsukiji Outer Market. Get a Suica card for seamless metro travel.
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Nikko, Japan
A stunning day trip or overnight from Tokyo into the mountains. The ornate Tosho-gu shrine complex is a UNESCO World Heritage Site surrounded by cedar forests. Try yuba (tofu skin) dishes, a local specialty.
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Hakone, Japan
Soak in an onsen with views of Mount Fuji on a clear day. Ride the ropeway over volcanic Owakudani and visit the open-air Hakone Sculpture Museum. The Romancecar train from Shinjuku makes for a scenic arrival.
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Kyoto, Japan
Japan's cultural soul — wander the Arashiyama bamboo grove, Fushimi Inari's thousand torii gates, and the geisha district of Gion. Rent a bicycle to hop between temples at your own pace. Try kaiseki multi-course dining for a splurge night.
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Nara, Japan
An easy day trip from Kyoto or Osaka, famous for freely roaming sacred deer in Nara Park. Visit the colossal bronze Buddha inside Todai-ji, one of the world's largest wooden buildings. Pick up shika senbei (deer crackers) to feed the locals.
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Osaka, Japan
Japan's food capital — gorge on takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and kushikatsu in the Dotonbori entertainment district. Explore the lively Kuromon Ichiba market and the impressive Osaka Castle. Osaka has a famously friendly, laid-back vibe compared to Tokyo.
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Hiroshima, Japan
A deeply moving and essential stop — the Peace Memorial Museum and Atomic Bomb Dome offer powerful historical reflection. Take a short ferry to the island of Miyajima to see the iconic floating torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine. Try Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, layered and distinct from Osaka's version.
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Fukuoka, Japan
End your journey in this vibrant, youthful city known for having some of Japan's best ramen — the rich, pork-based Hakata tonkotsu style. Visit the atmospheric Dazaifu Tenmangu shrine and browse the canal city of Nakasu at night. Fukuoka is a great final stop before flying home from its international airport.