Tokio, Kyoto (mit RailPass) & Baden Okinawa

About the destination: Tokyo is the capital of Japan and one of the largest urban area in the world. Tokyo is the financial center of Japan and a blend of high-technology and tradition. Tokyo is huge and a well-organized modern city. The city landscape of Tokyo consists of temples and shrines, quiet nature reserves, historical buildings, futuristic architecture and neon lights. The core of the city includes Chiyoda and Chuo. This area features the impressive Imperial Palace, the national government buildings, the famous shopping area of Ginza, Tsukiji fish market, Akihabara electronics market and the historic Tokyo Station. The quiet neighborhood of Asakusa has some must-see attractions such as the Sensoji Temple, the Nakamise-dōri shopping arcade, and the Golden Poo. Nearby is the Ueno area, including the Ameyoko market. A perfect spot to shop for traditional gifts and see a great Buddhist temple. Another major attraction of the city is the Meiji Shrine, located in Shibuya. Tokyo is a unique city that has something for everyone, busy shopping areas, famous nightlife, historical sights, quiet parks, and amazing scenery.

About the destination: For over a thousand years Kyoto was the capital of Japan and it is probably the best preserved of all its cities. It’s a beautiful vibrant city where modern life meets old traditional Japan. The city is surrounded by the mountains of Western Honshu and is a perfect base when visiting the Kansai region. The city is rich in heritage sites and culture, it has a great variety and number of restaurants and is fairly easy to navigate around. Its rich culture and heritage permeates from each and every architecture and customs. Kyoto has thousands of temples and shrines, including the spectacular golden Kinkaku-ji, Ryoanji with its Zen garden, the popular Kiyomizu-dera, Sanjusangendo with its life-size statues of Kannon and the more tranquil Tenryu-ji in Arashiyama. Also in Arashiyama, there is the famous Bamboo Grove. A wonderful thing to do in Kyoto is a walking tour of Gion, one of the main Geisha districts. Its wooden buildings and lamps create the perfect ambiance. Kyoto is one of the greatest historical cities in the world, filled with temples, shrines, teahouses and imperial residences. Kyoto is a city steeped in culture and heritage it’s a must for anyone with an interest in Japanese history and culture.

About the destination: Okinawa, Japan’s southernmost prefecture, feels like a different world from the bustle of Tokyo and Osaka. This subtropical island chain offers white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and a laid-back rhythm shaped by its unique Ryukyu heritage. Once an independent kingdom, Okinawa blends Japanese, Chinese, and Southeast Asian influences into a distinct local culture you’ll feel in its music, architecture, and festivals. For many travelers, the coastline is the main draw. Beach hop around the main island or head to outlying islands like Miyako and Ishigaki for some of Japan’s clearest waters and best coral reefs. Snorkeling and diving reveal vibrant marine life, while sea-kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and sunset cruises offer gentler ways to explore. Even in peak season, it’s often possible to find quiet stretches of sand if you venture a bit farther from the resort hubs. Beyond the beaches, Okinawa’s history is both fascinating and moving. Visit Shurijo Castle in Naha to see the heart of the former Ryukyu Kingdom, and explore World War II memorials and museums such as the Peace Memorial Park to understand the island’s more recent past. Traditional villages, limestone caves, and lush subtropical forests add layers to the experience, offering insight into local beliefs, crafts, and daily life. Food is another highlight of any trip to Okinawa. Local dishes like goya champuru (stir-fried bitter melon), Okinawa soba (thick wheat noodles in a rich broth), and rafute (braised pork belly) reflect the islands’ history and climate. Wash it down with awamori, a traditional distilled spirit, while listening to live sanshin (three-stringed lute) music. Whether you’re chasing world-class diving, cultural discoveries, or simple slow days by the sea, Okinawa delivers a side of Japan that’s warm, relaxed, and unforgettable.