Fusing the futuristic with the traditional, Tokyo is a sprawling megacity bursting with a seemingly limitless number of things to do.

A business and cultural mega centre that's home to tens of millions of people, Tokyo is also the crossroads where the Japanese interact with citizens from all over the world. The media love to focus on Harajuku's vibrant fashion, robot restaurants, maid cafes and the passionate uberfans known as otaku. As fast-paced as Tokyo’s innovation is, the metropolis is just as devoted to preserving tradition through its historical gardens, shrines and temples.

Known for its extreme attention to detail, Japan's capital is home to some of the best Japanese food in the country, with 234 Michelin-starred restaurants—more than any other city. Whatever your cultural interests are, Tokyo is likely to have you covered. Home to many world-class art galleries and museums, staggeringly diverse nightlife options and cutting-edge technology, you'll never be stuck for things to do or places to go in Tokyo.

Bullet train from Tokyo to Kyoto

Kyoto is the former capital city of Japan and world-famous for its refined culture, dining, and charm of rural Japan.

Kyoto City attracts millions of local and international visitors each year looking for traditional Japanese culture. Temples and shrines such as Kiyomizudera Temple and Kinkakuji draw lots off attention from visitors, as do the bamboo groves of nearby Arashiyama. Stay in a traditional ryokan, take a dip in a rejuvenating onsen, and enjoy the seasonal changes of cherry blossoms and brilliant autumn foliage. Kyoto's magic is only a short bullet train ride from Tokyo.

Bullet train from Kyoto to Hiroshima

Hiroshima's natural draws are the Seto Inland Sea, forested mountains and pristine waters. These are additional perks for visitors exploring the prefecture's peace connection, shrines and museums.

The city of Hiroshima is a great place for trekking through dense forests and enjoying natural hot springs. Discover quaint towns like Onomichi and Tomonoura or enjoy golden beaches, the islands of the Seto Inland Sea, and the iconic Itsukushima on Miyajima—the floating shrine with a red gate set in the sea. Hiroshima's other World Cultural Heritage site, the Atomic Bomb Dome, and its surrounding memorial park are monuments to peace. Hiroshima is also famous for savory okonomiyaki pancakes, anago or saltwater eel, and other culinary delights. Hiking, cycling, ocean sports, and skiing are all popular outdoor activities.

Bullet train from Hiroshima to Osaka

Osaka is only a short shinkansen ride from Tokyo, but has a very different personality to Japan's capital city. Hop off the bullet train into an area of exciting nightlife, delicious food and straight-talking, friendly locals. Along with plenty of shopping and modern attractions, Osaka also has a historical side, the highlight of which is Osaka Castle. The castle is a great place to discover more about Japanese history and to wander the beautiful grounds, especially during cherry blossom season in April when the sakura blooms and the weather is often at its best.

Fly from Osaka to the UK