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Japan, Asia travel guide

Outdoors - Land

Culture & Education

Food & Drink

Entertainment

Attraction

Outdoors - Water

Wellness

At once ultra-modern and enduringly traditional, Japan’s capital is a kaleidoscope of pop culture, history and innovation. There’s something to stimulate the senses around every corner, whether it’s the buzz of a pachinko parlour, the scent of incense at Sensō-ji temple, the neon lights of Kabukichō or the sight of blossoming cherry trees.

Tokyo’s tech-savvy reputation is embodied in its futuristic skyscrapers, high-speed bullet trains, robot restaurants and nine-storey electronics stores. Japan’s penchant for all things eccentric is evident everywhere, from eye-popping street style to stores, streets and whole districts devoted to manga, anime and kawaii culture. Meanwhile, old-world Japan can be found in the city’s historic shrines, Japanese gardens and in the narrow streets of old-fashioned quarters such as Asakusa.

Introducing Tokyo

Tokyo is an incomparable city where everything you do will be unlike anything you’ve known before. Eating is an experience in itself, with concepts ranging from monster, maid and animal cafés to traditional tea ceremonies. To eat and drink like a resident, head to Shinjuku and explore the Golden Gai’s maze of tiny drinking dens and Omoide Yokocho’s izakaya (Japanese pubs). Take in the sheer size of the world’s most populated city from atop the 634m-tall Tokyo Skytree, or by braving the crowds at the infamous Shibuya Crossing. Finally, make sure to enjoy quintessentially Japanese traditions, whether by watching a sumo tournament or soaking in an onsen (natural hot spring).

Tokyo travel and culture

Tokyo neighbourhoods

Things to do

Places to stay

Spending 24 hours in Minsk is a great introduction to any Belarusian adventure. Find out how to enjoy architecture, history and cuisine in a day with this guide.

Europe

Belarus

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Minsk food writer Anastasiya Scherban shares her list of the must-eat breakfast dishes in the Belarusian capital.

Morning in Minsk: The Belarusian Capital in 9 Breakfasts

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The Best Cafes in Minsk, Belarus

Belarusian artist, Chilik, will draw absolutely anything you ask him to and it's amazing!

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The literature of Belarus has historically had to cope with the encroachment of Soviet influence, and a persistent lack of freedom of speech. Despite this, as Lindsay Parnell discovers, a national literary tradition has emerged which foregrounds Belarusian national identity and language, whilst focusing on the traumatic legacy of conflict.

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Belarus has been overlooked for too long - it's time to pay attention to the amazing culture, history and landscape of this beautiful country.

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We interview Belarusian photographer Alexandra Soldatova and explore her awe-inspiring 'It Must Be Beautiful' series.

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Delve into some truly cool, quirky and cosy bars and clubs in the up and coming night scene in the Belarusian capital, Minsk.

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Enjoy some tasty food from Belarus and beyond in the top restaurants in the city of Grodno, in the west of the country.

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Beyond the capital, Japan offers an eco-friendly array of natural wonders to discover.

From traditional ryokans with communal baths to a hotel with an 800-year-old garden, read our guide to Kyoto's best places to stay – bookable with Culture Trip.

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The Best Travel, Food and Culture Guides for Japan, Asia - Local News & Top Things to Do

Japan

See & Do

Japan’s Best Ecotourism Destinations We Can’t Wait to Visit

Beyond the capital, Japan offers an eco-friendly array of natural wonders to discover.

Places to Stay

The Best Hotels in Kyoto, Japan, for Every Traveller

Places to Stay

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