Kyoto

Kyoto was the capital of Japan for more than a thousand years and still is considered the country's spiritual capital. Kyoto has the attractions the temples, palaces, gardens and museums as well as plenty of tourists, so expect crowds. Foreigners need only turn up with their passports at the office in the Palace Park an hour or so before the free English-language tours, and admittance will be granted. The complex is impressive yet austere it's hard to imagine emperors living in unheated wooden buildings. Dont miss the Pontocho, the traditional nighttime entertainment spot. This narrow little street may be the most romantic street in Japan.