Dazzling cityscapes await your exploration; visit Asakusa for the bright lights, street fairs and Senso-ji Temple; the Tsukiji Market, the largest open-air fish market in the world with on-the-spot sushi; and the Imperial Palace's East Garden for some calm. Spend the evening in the bright, active Ginza District, where the night comes alive.

At Sea

In 1854 Hakodate became Japan’s first port to open to foreign trade as the country’s era of isolationism came to an end. The resulting influx of traders and merchants from Russia, China and Western countries imprinted the city with a mélange of cultural styles that now distinguish Hakodate’s unique atmosphere. Star-shaped Goryokaku Fort was designed in the European style – even as its purpose was to defend Japan from foreign imperialism – and is now flanked by thousands of native cherry trees. The Russian Orthodox Church stands just blocks from the Chinese Memorial Hall, and nearby you’ll find traditional Japanese markets selling the signature Hakodate shio ramen, a salty noodle dish that is the city’s specialty. Beef lovers will want to try the famously flavorful Hakodate Onuma beef, which happily can be savored in restaurants overlooking scenic Lake Onuma.

Niigata, on Honshu’s west coast, sits along the Shinano River, with the iconic Bandai Bridge linking the seaport to the city center. The Niigata City Art Museum highlights modern Japanese works and local cultural heritage. Nature lovers can visit the Niigata Prefectural Botanical Garden, home to stunning native flora. History enthusiasts will enjoy the Niigata History Museum, set in a former merchant’s house, while Hakusan Jinja Shrine, dating to the 14th century, offers insight into the region’s Shinto traditions.

From trendy cafes and famous fish markets to sacred temples and traditional tea ceremonies, Busan, the second largest city in South Korea is bursting with flavors and culture. Take a walk in the relaxing Yongdusan Park while admiring the various species of trees and a view of the Busan Tower. At the Hongbeopsa farming temple, explore the renowned large Buddha statues at the Main Buddha Hall while walking along a water lily path, or experience a traditional Korean tea ceremony conducted by one of their monks.

Discover remnants of old Nagasaki beside the modern city. Visit the Peace Park and Atomic Bomb Museum. Or travel to Arita, home of magnificent Japanese ceramics, and tour famous Kakiemon Kiln, which continues a 400-year-old tradition. Experience feudal Japan and the natural wonders of Shimabara Peninsula with its volcanoes and hot springs.

At Sea

In the shadow of Mount Fuji, Shimizu is one of the most beautiful ports in Japan. Walk through the pine groves of Miho, home to a 650-year-old Japanese black pine, or enjoy spectacular views of Mount Fuji from the lush, forested hill of Nihondaira. Take in the seascapes on a bay cruise, or learn of undersea delights at Japan’s first sushi museum. For a historic angle, get a glimpse at feudal life in Japan in 200 BC at the archaeological site of Toro.

Dazzling cityscapes await your exploration; visit Asakusa for the bright lights, street fairs and Senso-ji Temple; the Tsukiji Market, the largest open-air fish market in the world with on-the-spot sushi; and the Imperial Palace's East Garden for some calm. Spend the evening in the bright, active Ginza District, where the night comes alive.