Asia: Taipei, Osaka, Kochi & Okinawa

Colonization by the Dutch in the 17th century has left an ample architectural legacy, as did Taiwan’s rule by Japan from 1895-1945. Grab a coffee at the former British Consulate, a landmark overlooking the bay. Art lovers can enjoy the outdoors and contemporary sculptures at the Kaohsiung Museum of Fine Arts’ Sculpture Park, and for a spiritual experience, a visit to the Fo Guang Shan Buddha Memorial Centre, with the world’s largest sitting Buddha, is highly recommended.

The capital of this fascinating island, once known as Formosa (“beautiful island” in Portuguese), has a rich aboriginal, colonial and political history. Snap a selfie at the ornate, dragon-adorned Mengjia Longshang Temple or photograph the changing of the guard at Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall, a must-see site. Experience 360-degree views of the city from the 91st floor observation deck of Taipei 101. Selfies and panaromic pics done, head off to shop for Taiwanese lacquerware, silk and fine art.

Pacific perfection awaits at Miyakojima in Okinawa Prefecture. This Japanese island paradise is known for its natural beauty and vibrant local culture. The Eastern Cape is a nationally-designated Place of Scenic Beauty with a spectacular view of the surrounding ocean. Stop by the beaches of Sunayama or Aragusuku for sunshine and snorkeling. A visit to the Shigira hot springs will help you relax or take a ride across the expansive Ikema bridge for a scenic drive across the beautiful blue waters.

Nagasaki is often equated with the dropping of the atomic bomb, and there are many moving museums, memorials and monuments dedicated to its World War II history that shouldn’t be missed. Yet modern Nagasaki offers a vibrant and charming atmosphere that’s waiting to be explored. Among its cobblestone and rolling hills, the city boasts a rich culinary scene that will excite your inner foodie. To capture Nagasaki’s scenic beauty, consider a cable car ride or harbor tour. Centuries-old shrines, temples and churches dot the landscape and are a must see.

Visit the exquisite Iso-Teien Garden and its villa, built in 1660, and enjoy gorgeous views before a short ferry ride to smoking Sakurajima for a close-up view of the volcano and its lava fields. Or journey into the countryside to Chiran and its well-preserved streets lined with samurai homes. Enjoy the beautiful landscape of Lake Ikeda and the stunning vistas of the Satsuma Peninsula. Local Satsuma dolls, unique cards printed with ink made from volcanic ash, and unusual wooden toys make interesting souvenirs. And be sure to try some miso soup, sashimi or ramen, the area’s famous noodles.

History is never far from mind in Hiroshima, thus the city has created one of the most important and breathtaking memorials in the world, the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum. Statues, halls, and monuments at this World Heritage Site honor those who fell in World War II. As one of Japan's largest islands, Hiroshima also offers rich natural beauty and a myriad of outdoor activities like biking, hiking and beaching. The local cuisine is plentiful, especially the signature “Okonomiyaki,” a crepe filled with meat, seafood, cabbage, and vegetables. Oysters (usually grilled) serve as an additional fresh and delicious culinary draw.

Engage with locals and indulge in local flavors in this welcoming city, known for its famed dish Katsuo no tataki (a type of tuna Tataki). The city center was initially settled in 1601 as a town surrounding Kochi Castle, which is now one of the region's principal attractions. Delve into times gone by as you stroll along the famed, red Harimaya-bashi – the basis for an old local folklore song. Discover the lovely Katsurahama beach area, where the Sakamoto Ryoma Memorial overlooks the sea and honors this legendary Japanese peace negotiator.

Cradled by rolling hills on three sides, Kyoto is considered the historical and cultural epicenter of the country. The city was Japan’s capital for more than 1,000 years (794 – 1868) and approximately 1,600 Buddhist temples and more than 400 Shintō shrines are peppered throughout the city. From numerous historic sites and tranquil gardens to delicious local cuisine and boutique shopping, Kyoto offers you a window into the heart of Japan’s traditions and culture.

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, and get a glimpse at feudal life in Japan in 200 BC at the archaeological site of Toro. Shop for traditional Japanese wooden handcrafts and fabrics unique to the region, and sample some yokan, a sweet jellied confection.

Once a sleepy fishing village, Tokyo is now one of Japan’s largest ports. Ancient traditions and historic sites blend into modern culture, crafting a city unlike anywhere else. Walk among both neon-glowing skyscrapers and regal temples. Browse stores showcasing the latest advances in technology or retreat to one of the tranquil gardens surrounding the Imperial Palace. Savor traditional cuisine at a Michelin-starred restaurant and witness the centuries-old sport of sumo wrestling. This cosmopolitan hub offers a vast selection of attractions and activities and a wealth of culturally and historic sites. Whether this is your first or fifth visit to the city, Tokyo will captivate your imagination.