Japan Animal, Beach + Religious Pictures

• Asia
• World

Come for the entertaining winter penguin parade and spend time spotting birds, reptiles and majestic mammals at this zoological park.

One of the world’s largest and most cutting-edge cities is at the heart of this region that’s blessed with sacred shrines, gorgeous coastlines and lush mountain landscapes. 

Asahikawa is Japan’s saké-brewing, seafood and ramen noodle centre. Amuse yourself at its zoo, sculpture museum, pottery village, ski slopes and beautiful gardens.

Cats of all shapes and sizes have taken over this purr-fect petting zoo, with a cat train and friendly staff who let you watch the pets during feeding times. 

Find out how Japanese handwriting has evolved over the centuries via the many works of calligraphy and rubbings and short films on the art form.

Glass-melding and Buddhist shrines set the stage for old-world Japan, while steaming hot springs used by the imperial family create an otherworldly setting.