Japan Animal, Art + Historic Buildings Pictures

• Asia
• World

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.

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. 

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

Most famous for its surprisingly relaxed hot-tubbing monkeys, the complex is also home to Japan’s biggest collection of tropical plants.

Relax at an island park decorated with cherry blossoms, admire a landscape of densely forested mountains and enjoy scenic riverside walks.

Works of two of Japan’s best-known modernist sculptors and artists fill this private museum, making it feel a bit like entering their home, full of an easy intimacy.

Forested footpaths and a scenic ropeway lead up to Miyajima’s tallest peak, where you can spot wildlife and examine intriguing rock formations and Buddhist relics.

Bamboo folk art, antiques and wooden tools from a bygone era stand beside the modern works of art on display in this museum.

Mind-bending optical illusions offer opportunities for photos, special events and good fun on rainy days right off Yufuin’s main tourist street.