Matsumoto

A cultural city in Hokuriku that flourished as the castle town of the Kaga domain, where tradition and modernity coexist at Kenroku-en Garden, the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, and Higashi Chaya District. The 2015 Hokuriku Shinkansen dramatically improved access from Tokyo, triggering a tourism surge.

One of Japan's premier mountain scenic spots at approximately 1,500m elevation in the Northern Alps. Views from Taisho Pond and Kappa Bridge reflecting the Hotaka Range are sometimes called 'Japan's Switzerland.' Private car restrictions preserve the natural environment, making it a popular base for mountaineering and trekking.

A port town symbolized by its nostalgic canal-side stone warehouses. Popular for its fusion of retro townscapes with artisan culture — including glasswork, music boxes, and fresh sushi.

The central city of Harima, home to World Heritage Himeji Castle. Beyond the castle, it offers appealing tourism resources and food culture including Mount Shosha's Engyo-ji Temple and Himeji-style oden.

A castle town called 'Little Kyoto of San'in.' Koi swim in the moats of Tonomachi Street, and the thousand torii gates of Taikodani Inari Shrine are stunning. Also the birthplace of author Mori Ogai.

A district preserving Edo-period castle town scenery in Kawagoe, Saitama Prefecture, nicknamed 'Little Edo.' Featuring rows of traditional kura (storehouse) buildings and temples alongside landmarks like the Time Bell, it attracts approximately 3.5 million visitors annually. It exemplifies Kanto's premier historical district offering authentic Edo atmosphere.