The third-biggest city in Japan, Osaka is one of the most attractive destinations in the Land of the Rising Sun. Not surprisingly, one of its monuments is the most visited tourist attraction in the whole of Japan, both by local tourists and foreigners. We're talking about the majestic Osaka Castle, an emblem of power since the late fifteenth century. What's more, you'll get to enjoy the siren song of Japanese technology, with state-of-the-art projects such as the 173-metre Umeda Sky Building, which simulates a floating city and boasts a great observation deck; the spectacular Osaka Aquarium, one of the largest in the world; and numerous theme parks, such as Universal Studios Japan or Expoland, which are attracting more and more visitors each year. And make sure you head to the Dotonbori neighbourhood, in the heart of Osaka, to experience the city's crazy nightlife and famous karaoke bars.
Located in the prefecture of Kanagawa, less than a hundred kilometres away from Tokyo, Hakone is a very popular destination, pulling in city dwellers and tourists alike thanks to its magnificent landscape around Mount Fuji and its numerous onsen (hot springs). The most touristy areas are Hakone-Yumoto, the point of entry and exit by public transport; Moto-Hakone, one of the ports for boats sailing across Lake Ashi; Hakone-Machi, another busy port from which boats depart and arrive; Gora, interchange point between the Tozan train and the funicular; and Owakudani, the volcanic and sulphurous zone where black eggs are a delicacy.
Modern, eccentric, unparalleled, extravagant, attractive, crazy, fun, solemn, traditional... Words struggle to define a city like Tokyo, a vibrant global metropolis with thirteen million inhabitants. Despite spearheading technological innovations and urban modernity, it retains a perpetual traditional soul that makes it a potpourri of contrasts. Highlights awaiting you include the Akihabara neighbourhood, a true geek's paradise; the world-famous Shibuya Crossing, where up to a thousand people can coincide at the same time; or the area known as Golden Gai, a maze of winding streets and narrow two-storey wooden buildings full of cute bars, each with its own eccentric character. And this is just the tip of the iceberg of the endless attractions offered by the unforgettable capital of Japan.
Afterwards, there is nothing better than calling in at the beaches of Krabi, directly in front of which a beautiful landscape dotted with limestone islands unfolds.
