Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto, a city fighting the flood of modernism that has swept over most of the country, is dedicated to preserving old-world Japanese culture. Wander through tranquil gardens with exquisite decorative bridges covered by cherry trees; learn about Samurai battles and find the scars on their swords; or spot Geisha on their way to appointments at night. The streets here are steeped in history and charm, providing an alternative to Tokyo's neon city.

Every year, millions of local and foreign visitors come to Kyoto in search of traditional Japanese culture. Visitors go to temples and shrines like as Kiyomizudera Temple and Kinkakuji, as well as the bamboo trees of adjacent Arashiyama. Stay in a traditional ryokan, soak in a revitalizing onsen, and take in the seasonal changes of cherry blossoms and stunning fall foliage. Kyoto's enchantment is only a short bullet train trip away from Tokyo. Kyoto Prefecture has several beautiful rural regions beyond the city. Amanohashidate in the north has long been regarded as one of Japan's three most picturesque locations. Miyama, located in the highlands, is one of the remaining communities with thatched-roof farmhouses, many of which are still in use. The bullet train connects Kyoto to the majority of Japan's main cities. Itami and Kansai International airports are the closest. Both are in Osaka Prefecture, around 1 hour and 20 minutes apart.

Location: Kansai, Japan