The setting is superbly pretty: Shimizu sits on Suruga Bay in the shadow of Mount Fuji, whose peak is spectacularly snow-capped for some five months of the year. The small city about 120 miles south of Tokyo has much quiet charm and is a good place for relaxing walks and gentle exploration. Visit Kashi-No-Ichi fish market by the port and sample some of the choices of tuna sushi at one of the cafés here – deep Suruga Bay is a prime area for this highly prized fish. Head to the observation terrace at Nihondaira Hill to take in magnificent views of Mount Fuji. Catch a water bus to Miho island just beyond the port and enjoy its views and its renowned pine groves, complete with an enormous 650-year-old black pine. Appealing attractions near Shimizu include the Tokaido Hiroshige Art Museum, showing some of Utagawa Hiroshige's finest woodblock landscape prints, and the Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha shrine, founded about 1000 years ago for protection from volcanic eruptions.

One visit to Osaka, and you'll soon see why it's known as the ‘kitchen of Japan'. This is a city that takes food seriously, where every mealtime is a celebration. Embrace its proud culinary culture and stroll the neon-lit streets of Dotonbori to sample iconic dishes that characterize Osaka's street food scene – from fritter-like okonomiyaki to piping hot balls of octopus-stuffed takoyaki. For a dose of history, pay a visit to Osaka Castle, which played a key role in the unification of Japan during the 16th century. Admire the sweeping views from the castle's main tower and stroll the surrounding gardens, which come alive with cherry blossoms in spring and turn fiery red in fall.

One visit to Osaka, and you'll soon see why it's known as the ‘kitchen of Japan'. This is a city that takes food seriously, where every mealtime is a celebration. Embrace its proud culinary culture and stroll the neon-lit streets of Dotonbori to sample iconic dishes that characterize Osaka's street food scene – from fritter-like okonomiyaki to piping hot balls of octopus-stuffed takoyaki. For a dose of history, pay a visit to Osaka Castle, which played a key role in the unification of Japan during the 16th century. Admire the sweeping views from the castle's main tower and stroll the surrounding gardens, which come alive with cherry blossoms in spring and turn fiery red in fall.

Views of the sea, high-rises, parks and temples, Kochi has it all. The town is particulary famous for its famous dish, katsuo tataki, a culinary delight of flavorfully seasoned, seared tuna, which draws food fans from all over the world. Once you have had your fill of the delicious local dish, any cravings you have for a taste of Japanese culture are sure to be satisfied during your visit. Meander through the Makino Botanical Garden, explore the Museum of Art, stroll along the nearby beach, barter at the Obiyamachi shopping arcade, visit the aquarium, or simply gaze at the city's most celebrated sight, Kochi Castle. Which remains largely intact atop Otakasaka Hill, and at the top of most traveler's must-see lists.

The city of Amami, also referred to as Naze, is the gateway to the natural wonders of Amami Oshima, the largest of the enchanting UNESCO World Heritage-listed Amami islands. This subtropical haven is a paradise for nature lovers, with its pure white sands, azure waters, dense mangrove forests, and rich biodiversity – it is home to multiple endemic bird species, as well as the rare Amami rabbit. The island's unique cultural fabric blends the traditions of mainland Japan with influences from Okinawa. Savor regional culinary specialties like keihan, a chicken and rice dish, and abura-zomen, stir-fried somen noodles.

Okinawa is the southernmost of Japan's main islands and lies 500 miles beyond the archipelago. Unlike other parts of Japan, Okinawa has its own, separate history stemming from the Ryukyu Kingdom of the 15th century. The nostalgia of royalty remains to this day, as sacred temples and an imperial castle blend with imposing skyscrapers and modern freeways. Though poor in natural resources, the people of Okinawa became skillful mariners, turning the island into a thriving center of trade. Today, its unique culture combines influences from Europe, China, Japan and Southeast Asia. During World War II, Okinawa was the only location in Japan where the Allies landed. From 1945 to 1972, the island was under the control of the United States military and numerous US military bases are still active today. Beyond the modern capital of Naha lie peaceful panoramas of hills dotted with blooming bougainvillea. Due to its tropical climate, sugar cane fields, luminous seas and white beaches, Okinawa is sometimes known as Japan's Hawaii.

It's easy to see why Miyako-jima is nicked named the “Hawaii of Japan”. This island is an unexpected tropical paradise with inimitable, paradisical scenery and masses of endemic wildlife. With its sprawling, powdery white beaches, clear waters, and vibrant marine life, it's a haven for snorkeling and diving, while the island's botanical gardens, dramatic cliffs, and picturesque landscapes offer ample opportunities for exploration and photography. Beyond its natural attractions, Miyako-jima embraces its local culture through traditional crafts, festivals, and mouthwatering cuisine, and the significant presence of US soldiers based in Okinawa during World War II means that you'll find several American attractions, such as burger joints and pancake houses too. The warm hospitality of the locals adds a special touch to your experience. Whether you're seeking an active getaway, a cultural immersion, or simply a place to unwind and enjoy the serene ambiance, Miyako-jima promises a memorable and enriching visit.

This seaside town is the perfect gateway to the modern and vibrant city of Taipei. There, you can visit numerous attractions such as the colorful night markets and the majestic Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall. To finish the day, ascend the Taipei 101 building to see the stunning skyline of this capital city.

This vibrant modern metropolis of neon-lit skyscrapers is one of Taiwan's top arts hubs. The place to start exploring is Pier-2 Art Center, where once-derelict warehouses have been reimagined as independent shops, cutting-edge galleries and cool cafés. Plus there's head-turning installation art – from a two-ton Transformer robot to a right-angled sculpture of shipping containers. Other surprising discoveries in this future-facing city include the blissful waterside parks of Love River and the terracotta-roofed Dragon and Tiger pagodas amid the lily pads of Lotus Lake – just remember to enter through the dragon's mouth and leave through the tiger's jaws, because to do the reverse is said to bring bad luck.

It's impossible to be bored in Hong Kong, a glittering metropolis of dizzyingly high skyscrapers, thrumming street markets, and world-class malls flush with high-end designer stores. The city's relentless energy is as addictive as its famous dim sum. But venture just beyond the tightly packed streets to encounter awe-inspiring nature, from the unique coastal formations of Hong Kong UNESCO Global Geopark to the shaded forests of Dragon's Back Trail and the golden sands of Cheung Sha Beach – perfect for lounging upon when your feet weary from shopping.

Shaped by centuries of history but pulsing with the energy of a modern Asian capital, Manila is a city of stark contrasts. Amid towering skyscrapers, expansive shopping malls, and luxury hotels and restaurants, you'll find remnants of the city's Spanish colonial past. Key sites include the 16th-century Fort Santiago, the UNESCO-recognized San Agustin Church, and Casa Manila, a meticulously restored living museum depicting colonial life. Moments of tranquility are never far off: Rizal Park is a leafy oasis in the heart of the city, while the natural harbor of Manila Bay is famed for its scenic sunsets.

Shaped by centuries of history but pulsing with the energy of a modern Asian capital, Manila is a city of stark contrasts. Amid towering skyscrapers, expansive shopping malls, and luxury hotels and restaurants, you'll find remnants of the city's Spanish colonial past. Key sites include the 16th-century Fort Santiago, the UNESCO-recognized San Agustin Church, and Casa Manila, a meticulously restored living museum depicting colonial life. Moments of tranquility are never far off: Rizal Park is a leafy oasis in the heart of the city, while the natural harbor of Manila Bay is famed for its scenic sunsets.

Picture yourself afloat in bright emerald waters, gazing up at towering karst rock formations, and you are on your way to appreciating the pleasures of Coron. Busuanga Island's main port, and gateway to the idyllic Calamian Islands, Coron is the jumping-off point for adventures in otherworldly landscapes. Take a boat to Coron Island, home to the Tagbanua people, who famously gather the edible nests of swiftlets for coveted bird's nest soup. Here, the dense jungle interior conceals two captivating lakes. Kayangan, reached by a 10-minute climb, is so photogenic that, despite its remote location, it can be busy in peak hours – go early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds. Barracuda appeals to divers for its underwater vistas of jagged cliffs, pin-sharp in the pristine waters. Equally stunning is Twin Lagoon, where you must swim through a crevice to get from one side to the other. Prefer to stay dry? Tackle the 720 steps to the top of Mount Tapyas for awe-inspiring panoramas or relax on the white sands of Banol Beach.

Enter the subterranean world of Puerto Princesa's Underground River – a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Natural Wonders located in the Philippines – surrounded by ethereal rock formations and lush forest where monkeys and monitors casually greet guests. The Palawan capital is also a bustling gateway to El Nido and the breathtaking Bacuit Archipelago, surrounded by limestone cliffs and soaked in sunshine.

Kota Kinabalu , commonly known as KK, faces the South China Sea on the northwest coast of Borneo. As the state of Sabah's capital, it is a sprawling and busy city. Situated between the Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park and Mount Kinabalu, it is a place for snorkeling, hiking and simply watching the ebb and flow of nature. For people watching, there is the KK Waterfront, where a variety restaurants, pubs and cafes vie for the traveler's time and interest. Shopping opportunities abound, with numerous malls offering slick and modern places to make that perfect purchase or two, and the Kota Kinabalu Handicraft Market, formerly known as the Filipino Market, and weekly Gaya Street Market hawking everything from ethnic souvenirs to traditional foods.

Located in Brunei, about 17 miles from the capital, Muara is a bustling port town that provides a glimpse into the country's maritime industry and trade. The country, officially known as the Nation of Brunei, is a small yet fascinating sovereign state located on the northern coast of the island of Borneo in Southeast Asia and is surrounded by the Malaysian state of Sarawak and the South China Sea. Brunei is known for its lush rainforests, pristine beaches, vibrant flora and fauna, as well as its rich history, cultural heritage, and impressive modern development, while being world renowned for its lush landscapes and pristine beaches. Muara is also home to several attractions, including the Muara Beach, where you can relax and enjoy the sea breeze. Nearby, you'll find the Lumut Lagoon, a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts, while historic Muara Town Mosque showcases elegant Islamic architecture and offers insight into the local culture.

The Southeast Asian city-state of Singapore may be compact (it takes under an hour to drive from one end of the island to the other), but it certainly isn't short on excitement. Shop up a storm on the fashionable Orchard Road, discover vibrant street art and royal landmarks in Kampong Glam, soak up a heady aroma of spices in Little India, and find tranquility in one of the city's many urban parks and gardens. Whatever you do, just be sure to make the most of mealtimes. From bustling hawker centers doling out heaving bowls of chicken rice to fine-dining institutions with dishes so creative they'll stay with you long after you've scraped your plate clean, Singapore's culinary culture is a total thrill.