Whether exploring volcanic trails or relaxing in seaside hot springs, Hachijo Jima provides an unforgettable island experience that feels worlds away from Japan’s major cities.
High in the Kullu Valley of Himachal Pradesh, Manali is where snow-dusted peaks, rushing rivers, and quiet cedar forests come together to create a destination full of experiences. The town sits beside the Beas River at nearly 2,000 meters above sea level, offering a refreshing escape from India’s plains. Legend says the name “Manali” comes from “Manu-Alaya,” meaning the home of sage Manu, who is believed to have repopulated the world after a great flood.
Majestic Victoria Falls, a waterfall of gargantuan proportions, sits atop the Zambezi River in Zimbabwe. This cascading natural wonder is the main attraction for Victoria Falls National Park and the local town of Victoria Falls to its west
Seligman is a small community in northwestern Arizona, located along the historic route of U.S. Route 66 in Yavapai County. The town sits on a high plateau surrounded by open grassland, juniper, and pinyon pine, with the rugged terrain of northern Arizona extending in every direction. Seligman is closely associated with Route 66 and is recognized as one of the places that helped preserve the character and traditions of the old highway.
Espiritu Santo, one of the largest islands of Vanuatu off the east coast of Australia, is a popular destination for divers. Famous Champagne Beach, as one might guess from the name, offers crystal clear waters and powdery white sands, while the western side of the island is dotted with caves to explore and reefs team with marine life just offshore.
Photo Credit: Photo by Robby McCullough on Unsplash
Kanazawa, Japan, is a captivating city that offers a unique blend of historical charm and cultural richness. Known for its well-preserved Edo-period districts, Kanazawa is a treasure trove of traditional Japanese experiences. The Kenroku-en Garden, one of Japan’s Three Great Gardens, is a must-visit for any traveler. This beautiful landscape garden features serene ponds, lush greenery, and seasonal flowers, embodying classic Japanese aesthetics.
Another gem in Kanazawa is the Kanazawa Castle, which, though rebuilt, retains the grandeur of its original structure. The castle's impressive stone walls and historical exhibits provide a glimpse into the feudal past of the region. Explore the castle grounds and discover the rich history of the Maeda clan, the ruling samurai family of Kanazawa.
For those interested in traditional crafts, Kanazawa is renowned for its gold leaf production, which dates back to the 16th century. The city is home to several workshops where visitors can see artisans at work and even try their hand at creating their own gold leaf art. The Kanazawa Gold Leaf Museum offers a fascinating insight into this craft.
Fun Fact: Kanazawa is also known for its vibrant 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, which stands out for its innovative architecture and diverse exhibitions. The museum's round shape and transparent walls make it an architectural marvel in its own right.
Other Popular Destinations in Japan
Tokyo
Shopping, historic temples, lush green spaces and exceptional dining are all part of Tokyo, the capital of Japan. This spectacular, highly populated metropolis holds unlimited options for tourists.
Kyoto
Travel through enchanting Kyoto to discover a cultural and spiritual haven in Japan. Once the country’s imperial capital, Kyoto is now home to magnificent shrines, lush botanical gardens and nature parks, and exceptional culinary delights.