Enjoy access to at least 16 UNESCO World Heritage Sites including:

• Buddhist Monuments in the Horyu-ji Area, Osaka
• Christian Origin Sites in the Nagasaki Region, Nagasaki
• Shirakami-Sanchi Mountain Range, Aomori
• The Himeji-jo Castle. Osaka
• The Hiroshima Peace Memorial, Hiroshima
• The Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara, Osaka 
• The Itsukushima Shinto Shrine, Hiroshima

Set in the middle of Honshu’s western coast along the Sea of Japan, Toyama is capital of its namesake prefecture and center of Japan's pharmaceutical industry. Takaoka Kojo (Takaoka Castle) Park stands on the grounds of the city’s former Edo-period castle; today the expansive lawns welcome visitors with ruins of fortress walls, a small museum, and the Imizu Shrine noted for its torii gate. The park ranks among the top hanami (cherry blossom viewing) sites in the country.

This splendid castle town, with over 400 years of history, beckons visitors to its unique time capsule of history and culture. As the seat of the Maeda Clan during the Edo Period, it rivaled Kyoto and Edo (Tokyo) in cultural achievements, making it a city with a rich legacy. Remarkably, Kanazawa largely escaped the destruction of World War Two, preserving its Nagamachi samurai district and chaya entertainment districts in impressive condition.

Jeju (Cheju) Island is a volcanic island, dominated by Halla-san (Halla Mountain), a volcano 6,398 feet high and the tallest mountain in South Korea. The island was created entirely from volcanic eruptions approximately two million years ago. Because of the relative isolation of the island, the people of Jeju have developed a culture and language that are distinct from those of mainland Korea. 

This important port on Japan’s northern Hokkaido Island was the first to be opened to European and American trade. The result of this is a trove of Western-style buildings in the suburb of Motomachi that gives the impression of a movie set. The bell of the distinctive Haristo Greek Orthodox church is designated one of Japan’s official treasured “100 soundscapes.”

Nagasaki’s fine natural harbor on Kyushu island was mostly of local interest until Portuguese explorers landed there in 1543. It quickly flourished as a trading center for European and Asian merchants, which continued throughout its history. It also developed into an important industrial center. Because of its open status, the city harbored a significant Christian community, as well as a bustling Chinatown.

This unparalleled hot spring haven makes for an extraordinary spa day. Celebrated for its remarkable abundance of thermal waters, an array of baths each offering a unique experience – from ordinary hot water baths to rejuvenating mud baths, natural exfoliation in sand baths, and detoxifying steam baths. On cold days and cooler nights, visitors can get a better idea of just how abundant the baths are as the steam rises from the healing waters dances throughout the city.

Whether you’re exploring its historical sites, enjoying its natural beauty, or indulging in its culinary delights, Maizuru is a hidden gem that promises a memorable experience for all who visit. Located in northern Kyoto Prefecture along the coast of the Sea of Japan, Maizuru is a picturesque port city known for its naval history, scenic landscapes, and outdoor adventures. Maizuru is renowned for its fresh seafood, particularly crab and mackerel, so put visiting local restaurants and markets at the top of your travel list!