Surrounded by mountains and known for its striking black castle, Matsumoto blends cultural depth with alpine freshness. Explore the six-storey Matsumoto Castle—one of Japan’s most complete original castles—before strolling the Nakamachi district, filled with historic kura storehouses, cafés, and craft shops. Art lovers can visit the Matsumoto City Museum of Art, home to Yayoi Kusama’s colourful works in her hometown. With crisp mountain air, access to beautiful hiking trails, and nearby hot springs in the surrounding countryside, Matsumoto makes for a refreshing and well-rounded stop.

Famous for its snow monkeys and steaming hot springs, Yudanaka is a small onsen town with big charm. Stay in a traditional ryokan, soak in mineral-rich baths, and wake to the sound of the nearby river. A short forest walk brings you to the Jigokudani Monkey Park, where Japanese macaques bathe in natural hot springs, a truly unforgettable sight. After your wildlife encounter, return to the comfort of your inn for a multi-course kaiseki meal and another soak under the stars. It’s the kind of place where time slows down, and relaxation takes centre stage.

Tucked into the Japanese Alps, Takayama is a beautifully preserved town known for its historic merchant streets, Edo-era architecture, and mountain hospitality. The old town exudes timeless charm, with sake breweries, craft shops, and traditional ryokan lining narrow lanes. Visit the lively morning markets along the Miyagawa River, admire intricate wooden craftsmanship in the town’s museums, and savour Hida beef—a local delicacy. A gateway to the wider Hida region, Takayama offers a slower pace, scenic walks, and a deep sense of connection to Japan’s rural traditions.

There's no place like Kyoto. Kyoto whispers of another Japan — one of hushed temple gardens, centuries-old teahouses, and narrow alleys where lanterns glow at dusk. In spring, cherry blossoms spill over riversides; in autumn, fiery maples frame wooden shrines. The city balances grandeur and intimacy: golden pavilions reflected in still ponds, and tiny ramen counters tucked behind sliding doors. Walk through Gion at twilight and you might glimpse a geiko on her way to an evening appointment, a fleeting reminder that Kyoto’s traditions are not relics, but a living, breathing culture.