Tokyo is one of the most electrifying cities in the world. With a population of more than 37 million, there’s a frenetic pace to this mega-metropolis. Japan’s capital dazzles travellers with its futuristic backdrop of bright neon lights and glittering skyscrapers. The Shibuya Crossing –the busiest pedestrian intersection in the world – is the pulsating heart of the city. Join the throng of thousands of Tokyoites and lose yourself amongst the crowds at this iconic scramble crossing.

Follow the scent of BBQ smoke in Tokyo’s entertainment district, Shinjuku. You might come across a narrow, dimly lit alleyway crammed with tiny bars and yakitori grills. This is Omoide Yokocho, which translates to ‘Memory Lane’ (the less polite moniker is ‘Piss Alley’). The red lantern-lined lane by the rattling train tracks is a remnant of post-WWII Tokyo, when it began as an illegal drinking quarter in the 1940s. Today, it’s an atmospheric little corner of Tokyo where you can enjoy cheap charcoal-grilled chicken skewers and beer.

A visit to Kyoto is like stepping back in time. For more than a thousand years the city was the country’s Imperial capital. Kyoto is the epitome of Old Japan – renowned for its many lustrous temples, vermilion-coloured Shinto shrines and Zen gardens. Of all the temples in town, Kinkakuji, the ‘Golden Pavilion’, has the most admirers and it is as magnificent as its name suggests – especially when the gold-leaf façade is reflected in the pond.

Nowhere exemplifies Kyoto’s age-old traditions more than the geisha district of Gion. This is the Japan of your imagination – beguiling backstreets lined with timeworn teahouses where geishas glide between intimate appointments. If you’re lucky, you might encounter an ever-so mysterious geisha (or an apprentice known as a maiko).

Located in the Kansai region, Nara was Japan’s first permanent capital city, which was built over 1300 years ago. Whilst there are a myriad of significant cultural sights in this historic prefecture, one of the main attractions is Nara Park where 1,400 (supposedly) tame deer freely roam the woodlands at the base of Mount Wakakusa. Forget the language barrier, making friends with the locals in Japan has never been easier. Simply purchase a packet of special crackers called shika senbei (made from rice flour and wheat bran) sold at the entrance of the park. The deer bow their heads respectfully in exchange for these edible goods. You’ve been forewarned – they might not remain polite if crackers aren’t produced swiftly.

Whilst you may get a glimpse of the majestic Mt. Fuji as you speed 270km/h between Tokyo and Kyoto on the needle-nosed Shinkansen bullet train, nature-lovers should consider spending some time based around the scenic foothills and lakeside locations of Fujisan (as it’s known in Japanese). The snow-capped conical volcano (3776m) has long been revered by artists, and is believed to be a sacred site since ancient times. For many foreign travellers, Mt. Fuji is an image that has come to symbolise Japan.

Base yourself in Fujigoko (Fuji Five Lakes) one of the most scenic regions to enjoy the fresh mountain air. Although you can hike the volcano, it’s really best viewed from afar. Kayaking on the serene Lake Kawaguchi is an unbeatable experience – go early in the morning when the glass-like lake is deserted save for a few bass fishermen in their small wooden boats. Meanwhile, postcard-worthy vistas reward those who climb up the 400 stairs to where the legendary peak is framed by the towering Chureito pagoda.

Those who prefer to sleep in and still score a prime panorama can book a stay at Hoshinoya Fuji, Japan’s first 5-star glamping resort. The cube-shaped cabins are half-hidden amongst red pines set on a slope overlooking Lake Kawaguchi. Each cabin boasts uninterrupted views of Mt. Fuji across an expanse of cherry, ginkgo and maple trees – imagine waking up to that!

Kurashiki is an old Japanese merchant town in the Okayama Prefecture. The picturesque Bikan Historical Quarter is situated along a canal ornamented with quaint stone bridges and edged by droopy willow trees.

Back in the time of the Tokugawa shogunate the town prospered as a rice distribution centre. You can take a tour on board a wooden punt that once transported grain along the narrow channel.

The white stone and black ceramic-tiled warehouses, an architectural characteristic of Kurashiki, were used to store rice during the feudal era. Many of the grand merchant houses and granaries have since been converted into guesthouses, museums, galleries and workshops that sell local handicrafts such as folk textiles and Bizen-yaki pottery. For travellers looking for a place where time seemingly stands still – Kurashiki is utterly enchanting.

Kanazawa’s most famous sight is Kenroku-en. The landscaped garden, a stone’s throw from the 17th Century Kanazawa Castle, widely considered to be one of the most beautiful gardens in the country is especially celebrated for its glorious golden foliage during autumn.

This culturally rich city in the Hokuriku region, often referred to as ‘little Kyoto’, is known for its well-preserved Edo period geisha and samurai districts. Kanazawa is the ideal destination for those who love Japanese history and culture, but wish to avoid Kyoto’s well-trodden tourist trail.

Kanazawa actually translates to ‘marsh of gold’ and the region produces 99% of Japan’s gold leaf. Don’t miss a trip to Hakuichi, a souvenir shop that sells the famed glittering gold leaf soft serve. Whilst you’re exploring Higashi Chaya-Gai, the main geisha district in the old part of town, stop by Kaikaro – a chaya (teahouse) where geishas have been entertaining since the Edo Era. Order a bowl of carefully prepared matcha (green tea) and wagashi (Japanese sweets often made with red bean paste).

Make your way to the Nagamachi district, once home to samurai and their families, to visit the Nomura Samurai House. There’s a museum inside that displays historical pieces such as precious heirloom swords. The garden is particularly peaceful, replete with a gently trickling fountain and koi pond.