Sapporo
#1 in Best Places in Japan
Hokkaido island’s capital city is perhaps best known for its ties to the 1972 Winter Olympics. It’s hardly surprising, then, that Sapporo’s main draw is its winter activities. In addition to featuring top-notch ski slopes, the city hosts the Sapporo Snow Festival – with large, elaborate snow sculptures – every February. Plus, Sapporo offers a variety of tasty brews and bites. Learn about the city’s beer at the Sapporo Beer Museum. Then, grab a bowl of ramen in the Susukino entertainment district. Have more of a sweet tooth? Visit chocolate-themed Shiroi Koibito Park.
Nagasaki
#2 in Best Places in Japan
Americans might only associate the name Nagasaki with the dropping of the second atomic bomb during World War II, and today this city on the northwestern part of Kyushu island pays homage to the devastation at sights like the Nagasaki Peace Park and the Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum. But you’ll find an array of fun outdoor attractions here, too. Head to Glover Garden or Mount Inasa for sweeping panoramas. Also save time for a stroll through Nagasaki’s Chinatown to shop and savor authentic Chinese fare in Japan’s oldest Chinatown.
