Balanced between modern metropolises of sprawling train networks to colorful villages guarding serene temples, Japan is a treasure trove of cities, towns, and attractions that cannot be missed, despite being roughly the size of the US state of California.

Paramount to any trip to Japan is the capital of Tokyo, a modern marvel of stunning skyscrapers, packed shopping streets, stacked restaurants, and a super efficient train system, while also holding a variety of historical temples and architecture. Tokyo alone could be the bulk of your trip to Japan, but there's much, much more to see.

Grab a Rail Pass to enjoy the country's high speed rail network (Shinkansen) down south to Japan's more historical and scenic cities, including Nagoya, Kyoto, Osaka and Hiroshima, as well as the rural and friendly village of Hakone, where ...you can see the towering Mt Fuji.

Each of these cities are a must see, especially the charming city of Kyoto, from which you can climb through over 10,000 gates of the Fushimi Inari-taisha shrine or hike along the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove.

A trip north will lead you to the Sendai, home to the stunning Tanabata Festival, an event that attracts more than 2 million participants. Continue to the port town of Aomori and take a ferry to the scenic northern island of Hokkaido.

In winter, this island becomes a stunning wonderland and host to the amazing Sapporo Snow Festival, filled with intricate and colorful ice and snow sculptures. In contrast, summer offers colorful fields of flowers across the island, making it a perfect place for a scenic drive. View More