The Tokyo Imperial Palace is the primary residence of Japan’s Emperor, located on the former site of Edo Castle in the heart of the city. Surrounded by moats, stone walls, and expansive gardens, it offers a peaceful contrast to the surrounding business district. While most areas are closed to the public, the East Gardens are open year-round and provide insight into Japan’s imperial history and traditional landscape design.

Meiji Jingu is a serene Shinto shrine set within a vast forested park in the heart of Tokyo. Dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shōken, it offers a peaceful escape from the city, with towering torii gates, gravel paths, and traditional rituals. It’s one of Tokyo’s most important spiritual sites and a popular place for quiet reflection.

This historic clock on Bucareli street was gifted by the Chinese government in 1910, symbolizing friendship between Mexico and China. It stands in a roundabout surrounded by beautiful buildings and two charming corner restaurants, Supplí (Roman pasta) and Makan (Singaporean fine dining).

Located about 50 kilometers northeast of Mexico City, Teotihuacán is one of the most important ancient cities in Mesoamerica, founded around 100 BCE. It is home to the Pyramid of the Sun and the Pyramid of the Moon, overlooking the Avenue of the Dead and the vast ceremonial complex. Once the largest city in the pre-Columbian Americas, it was a major center of culture, trade, and religion. Visitors can dine nearby at places like La Gruta or El Jaguar, or experience the site from above on an early-morning hot air balloon ride.

The Imperial Palace is such a peaceful escape in the middle of Tokyo. While the inner grounds are closed, the East Gardens are free and perfect for a walk. The Nijubashi Bridge is one of the most photographed spots which is located right in the front of the gate (note you can’t walk across this as it’s only open to the public on two specific days each year – January 2nd and the Emperor’s birthday, December 23rd).

Zōjō-ji Temple is one of those spots that feels like a little secret even though it’s right in the middle of Tokyo. One minute you’re surrounded by busy streets and skyscrapers and then you step through the gates and suddenly it’s quiet and calm. I went early in the morning and loved having the place almost to myself. Even if you’re not usually a temple person, Zōjō-ji is totally worth a visit. Plus the backdrop of Tokyo Tower makes it insanely photogenic and trust me your Instagram will thank you.

These breathtaking ancient pyramids date back approximately 2000 years, predating the Aztec Empire by many centuries.

A unique shrine featuring a giant lion head.

Centuries-old Shinto shrine with red torii gates. 📌 Optional ideas: Visit & Explore and walk the Horishiki temple and Tennoji Park.

Osaka Castle, one of Japan's most impressive historical landmarks. The castle is surrounded by a vast park filled with cherry blossoms in spring. Don't forget to check out the Time Capsule Expo '70, an interesting relic from the 1970 World Expo buried within the grounds. 💰 Entrance Fee: 600 JPY (Castle Museum) | Free (Garden) ⏳ Visit Duration: 1 - 1.5 hours