Kyoto
#1 in Best Places in Asia
History lovers will revel in the sites of Kyoto. The city, which used to be Japan’s capital during imperial times, is awash with ancient religious sights, including Fushimi Inari Taisha, a shrine that dates back to A.D. 711. In addition to saving time for shrines and temples, be sure to pencil in a visit to the famous Philosopher’s Path, preferably during cherry blossom season, and treat yourself to kaiseki, which are traditional multicourse meals native to Japan.
Singapore
#2 in Best Places in Asia
Singapore is unique in that it’s a melting pot of Asian cultures. This fusion has led to prosperity that takes form in the city’s colorful neighborhoods, eclectic culinary scene and overall modernity. After shopping on flashy Orchard Road and chowing down in cultural enclaves like Little India or Chinatown, head downtown to take in the towering skyscrapers from Merlion Park, the Singapore Flyer or the sky-high Gardens by the Bay.
