European Summers reigned supreme in 2023, but I'm proposing springtime in Asia as 2024's next travel trend. Western travelers have overlooked the alluring jungles, snowcapped peaks, cherry blossom streets and neon nights of countries like Japan for too long. Europe's high-class resorts and walkable towns may cater to vacationers, but Asia's mountain ranges, urban epicenters and cultural experiences were made for adventurers.
Streetlights beep as thousands pour into the world's busiest street crossing. Just blocks away, a gong chime rings out across sacred temple grounds in tandem. High-speed bullet trains (Shinkansen) speed through rural countryside, where hills and valleys roll in waves of green and the sharp, pointy silhouette of Mt. Fuji reigns over its surroundings. Everywhere, old juxtaposes new.
High cultural standards require dedication and a country-wide effort, yet the Japanese have no qualms. Respect is a foundation of Japanese culture; its presence is palpable across the island. It manifests in the air of reverence at holy sites, in grandiose displays of untouched nature, and in the smiling faces of strangers who welcome us to their country, eager to share their language, their snacks and their culture.
The island is a mosaic of mountains, rice fields, waterfalls, cityscapes, oceans and temples. Luckily, exploration is easy in a country that has managed to eliminate most everyday problems. Split your visit between these cities to experience three vastly different sides of Japan.
Tokyo
You simply can't visit Japan without stopping in the world's biggest city.
Establish a home base in one of Tokyo's central districts. Shibuya offers attractions like Shibuya Crossing, Shibuya Sky and Harajuku (a kawaii shopping street coated in copious amounts of pastels). Shinjuku delivers world-class nightlife among Kabukicho's famed neon lights and hidden gems like Golden Gai, a maze of minibars and Izakayas. Ginza, Tokyo's shopping district, is lined with Flagships of Japan's biggest brands like UNIQLO, Muji Global and Shu Uemura.
After a few days in Tokyo's heart, venture out for unbeatable experiences like the Cherry Blossom (Sakura)-lined banks of the Meguro River. Then, witness a dazzling display of a million lights, wade through a Koi fish pond and step into outer space at teamLAB Planets. Before departing Tokyo, visit Asakusa's Senso-ji Temple for your first taste of traditional Japan.
Kyoto
The cobblestone villages, abundant greenery and peaceful lull of Kyoto starkly contrast Tokyo's fast-paced streets. Steeped in tradition and reminiscent of ancient Japan, Kyoto appears frozen in time, a modern city holding tightly to its roots.
Ancient cultural customs are on full display. Green tea is cherished and celebrated in the world's Matcha capital. Tea ceremonies happen daily on the woven tatami mats of temple grounds. Motchitsuki, the art of making mochi, occurs in shops and cafes. Geisha, storied performers of Japan's olden days, known to don traditional garb and porcelain makeup, walk the streets in the evening, illuminated by lantern light. With only 300 left in existence, Geisha sightings are truly serendipitous.
Mountains rise in every direction surrounding Arashiyama, where visitors can paddle the Katsura River and get lost among towering green stocks of bamboo groves. Gion offers Kyoto's best nightlife, known for lantern-lined streets and Kawara rooftops. The Higashiyama ward is home to world-class sightseeing. Its Kiyomizudera Temple spills into the cobblestone Ninen Zaka Path, boasting a picturesque view of the Tower of Yasaka, depicted in movies, photos and artwork worldwide.
Osaka
Arrive hungry in Osaka. Many consider it "Japan's Kitchen." The tempting aromas of Izakayas (dive bars) and street food stalls will lure you out, while some of the best shopping in the country will hold you captive in Osaka's energy-filled streets.
We were lucky to experience the Shitenno-ji Temple Market during our stay, which happens monthly on the temple grounds. It was a welcome, treasure-filled alternative to the raucous shopping streets we'd conquer later: streets like Shinsaibashi along the Dotonbori Canal. There, we splurged on anything from designer to Japanese brands like UNIQLO and GU to local shops.
There's no shortage of street food like Okonomiyaki, Takoyaki, Taiyaki, Wagyu beef and freshly prepared sushi in Osaka's streets. Indulge at Kuromon Ichiba Market, a 580-meter food hall with over 150 vendors. Then, hit Shinsekai, one of Osaka's most unique streets. The strip's endless games, free-flowing Sake and delicious street eats create a masterful fusion of sights, sounds and smells sure to leave a lasting imprint of your time in Osaka.
As I peered out the windows of the Shinkansen whizzing me back to the streets of Tokyo and, eventually, back home, Japan sent me off with one last breathtaking sight, a perfect view of Mt. Fuji's glistening peak. I took it as a reminder of the beauty to be discovered and made a silent promise to continue my exploration of Japan and Asia's many marvels.
Europe's high-class resorts and walkable towns may cater to vacationers, but Asia's vast mountain ranges, sleepless urban centers and immersive cultural experiences were made for adventurers.
