Just outside of central Kyoto, Uji is great for Japanese sights and matcha.

Koenji is thought of as one of Tokyo’s coolest neighborhoods by locals, and is known for its alternative subcultures, used clothing shops and cheap bars.

One of Tokyo’s popular “shitamachi”, or retro downtown areas, Yanaka Ginza’s vibe is mid-1900s and a good place to take an afternoon to explore.

Considered Tokyo’s Koreatown, Shin-Okubo is the go-to spot for Korean food, pop culture and cosmetics, and is an area that is increasingly challenging Harajuku as a hangout spot for young locals.

About the popular kaitenzushi, or conveyor belt sushi restaurants, that’s all over Japan.

A day trip to Kadokawa Musashino Museum, a modern museum/library designed by Kengo Kuma.

A day trip to Kawagoe, where its Warehouse District still retains the look of the Edo Period.

CBD is growing in popularity in Japan, and a few cafes have opened up.

A photogenic, old shopping town, Ningyocho has buildings with a lot of history as well as an over 250 year old restaurant serving the original oyakodon.

A unique city in Aomori prefecture, Hirosaki is known for its apples and western architecture.

A winter escape in Aomori at the Hoshino Resorts KAI Tsugaru, an amazing boutique ryokan full of local culture.

Stopping at Honshu Island’s northern-most capital.

Surrounded by Aomori’s nature, this beautiful and relaxing retreat has an amazing buffet and is one of my favorite resorts.

A nice Kanazawa getaway at the Hoshino Resorts KAI Kaga, an upscale boutique ryokan that lets guest dive into local culture.

A first trip to the city that is often compared to Kyoto to explore the sights and good food.

Ranked as one of the top onsen areas in Japan, Kusatsu Onsen is a quaint town to relax in with only hot springs on your mind.

A manga, anime and electronics hub, Akihabara is known for otaku culture. But there are other things to see and do here - here’s some that I recommend.

Thought of as Tokyo’s Brooklyn, Daikanyama is a posh and stylish neighborhood near Shibuya with a laid back vibe that attracts trendy locals.

A premium Starbucks experience with a unique, Japanese twist at their second largest location in the world.

Most famous for its cherry blossoms, Nakameguro is a hip, artsy neighborhood home to some great food, including "the best pizza in Tokyo,” and Starbucks Reserve Roastery Tokyo.