After you arrive at Hong Kongs airport on Lantau Island, see the enormous Tian Tan Buddha, measuring 112 feet tall and weighing over 200 tons. Then, take a harbor cruise to get your bearings and see Hong Kongs modern architecture. Later, slurp noodles at the Temple Street Night Market. If you have an extra day, head out to Dragons Back portion of the Hong Kong Trail for some scenic hiking among mist-covered peaks. The Peak Tram takes you up to Victoria Peak, Hong Kongs 1,800-foot-high mountain. Less expensive buses will get you there, too. Once youre up top, admire the views over the city from the hiking trails. The Peak also offers an escape from the subtropical climate below — the air here is cooler and less humid. Stanley Harbour, on the other side of Hong Kong Island, will give you a taste of a different Hong Kong. Its a fishing village on Repulse Bay with a lovely seaside walk (snap some photos of the fishing boats) as well as a famous street market. Theres lots of British history, a boardwalk and even a few beaches. You can take the bus from Central for a scenic trip, though the express bus is faster.

Not only is it incredibly fun to say but Fukuoka (thats Foo-koo-oh-ka) also boasts incredible sights like the countrys biggest hotel, longest bar and largest cinema complex. This cosmopolitan centre has been transformed over the last few years into a vibrant, modern city just for you – or, at least, just for worldly travellers like you. Dive into all the shopping, dining, sports and culture you can imagine, with plenty of helpful information offices and efficient underground stations along the way.

Many people in Japan consider Nagasaki to be one of the countrys most beautiful cities. It is also one of Japans most cosmopolitan cities, with a unique blend of outside cultures interwoven with its history, architecture, food and festivals. The port of Nagasaki resembles an amphitheatre looking out to the sea. Its matsuri (festivals) are renowned throughout Japan for their exuberance and authenticity. These festivals can feature everything from dragon boat races to lantern festivals to kite fights and usually have elaborate parades with brightly coloured floats.

Kumamoto City offers insight into both Japans samurai past and its modern-day love of kawaii cuteness. Check out the citys old downtown area dominated by Kumamoto Castle, a reconstruction of the fortress from which samurai lords ruled their domain. Cruise to Kumamoto and walk alongside the Shirakawa River past traditional Japanese gardens the homes of prominent 19th- and 20th-century writers — pop into the former residence of Lafcadio Hearn, one of the first Western writers to settle in Japan. Then, see ancient and modern art and relax in the calming stone garden at the Kumamoto Prefectural Museum of Art, or head to Musashizuka Park to see the tomb and statue of famous swordsman Miyamoto Musashi.

Japans southernmost major city, Kagoshima delivers a memorable mix of unique cuisine, historical attractions and outdoor activities in its temperate weather. Take the short ferry ride from the port to Sakurajima Yogan Nagisa Park and immerse yourself in its natural grandeur — take a rejuvenating soak in the 100-meter-long natural hot spring, and take in views of the areas most iconic landmark: Sakurajima volcano, nicknamed the Vesuvius of Japan. Then, take in sweeping bayside vistas at Sengan-en, the elegant estate of the Shimadzu samurai clan, and stroll through its cherry blossom-filled gardens. Cruise to Kagoshima and head to Yurigahama Beach, with its bright waters and mysterious sandbar that appears each month in a slightly different spot, depending on the tides.

After you arrive at Hong Kongs airport on Lantau Island, see the enormous Tian Tan Buddha, measuring 112 feet tall and weighing over 200 tons. Then, take a harbor cruise to get your bearings and see Hong Kongs modern architecture. Later, slurp noodles at the Temple Street Night Market. If you have an extra day, head out to Dragons Back portion of the Hong Kong Trail for some scenic hiking among mist-covered peaks. The Peak Tram takes you up to Victoria Peak, Hong Kongs 1,800-foot-high mountain. Less expensive buses will get you there, too. Once youre up top, admire the views over the city from the hiking trails. The Peak also offers an escape from the subtropical climate below — the air here is cooler and less humid. Stanley Harbour, on the other side of Hong Kong Island, will give you a taste of a different Hong Kong. Its a fishing village on Repulse Bay with a lovely seaside walk (snap some photos of the fishing boats) as well as a famous street market. Theres lots of British history, a boardwalk and even a few beaches. You can take the bus from Central for a scenic trip, though the express bus is faster.