Must-See Japan (2020 Edition): The complete insider's guide to seeing the best of Japan in one trip

Nikko National Park, an area full of scenic mountains, lakes, hot springs, wild monkeys and which is crisscrossed by numerous hiking trails. The town itself has

If looking to take a break, head to Itsuki Garden. Located in the grounds of a private residence, hikers would often get lost when walking the

One of the few districts where the Tokyo of the past seems to live on, Asakusa should be included on most itineraries.

Fans of the 2003 movie Lost In Translation should head to Karaoke-Kan in Shibuya (₸150-0042, 30-8 Utagawacho), it’s the karaoke bar which Bill Murray and Scarlett Johansson visit.

Yokoamicho Park, a peaceful space with gardens, earthquake memorials and a large temple.

Walk there in 40 minutes from Arashiyama Station, via the equally lovely Saga-Toriimoto Preserved Street, a scenic route lined by Meiji-era style machiya (town houses).

free and pleasant to wander around. Five minutes walk east of Higashi Honganji is Shosei-en, a large Japanese garden with a pond, some teahouses and plenty of cherry blossom in the spring. Entry is free but a small donation is expected.

Just west of Kamakura is Enoshima, a pleasant, touristy island with a few shrines, parks, caves and an observation tower.

The Hamarikyu Gardens are a somewhat hidden gem close to Ginza, peaceful and pretty parkland in the heart of the city with seawater ponds and a wonderful teahouse serving macha (green tea).