Olofsfors Ironworks is one of Sweden's most authentic and well-preserved ironworks environments. The foundry, forges, the manor house and residential buildings are in excellent condition and open for tours year-round. In the summer, the area is open daily, and several artists and craftsmen are at place in their workshops. The manor house now serves as a restaurant, and the old school building houses a café and shop.

Shinjuku's Kabukicho red-light district transforms after dark into a spectacle of neon-lit alleyways. The experience is defined by its visual energy, from the looming Godzilla head to the blinking signs of robot-themed restaurants. While not officially part of the district, the nearby lanes of Golden Gai and Omoide Yokocho offer a contrasting, intimate atmosphere with their tiny, traditional bars and eateries. A relatively new addition to the neighbourhood, Thermae-Yu is a six-storey onsen. The complex uses natural hot spring water sourced daily from Shizuoka. With facilities open for 22 hours every day, it functions as a popular overnight refuge for those who have missed the last train, offering a place to rest until the city stirs again at dawn.

Sumo wrestling is possibly Japan’s most recognised cultural event. Dating back 2,000 years, Sumo is the country’s national sport, and as such combines religious, athletic, and traditional features. There are several places to watch, check the tour schedule on their website to find out which suits you best. There is also a Sumo museum.

Created through the valiant efforts of community volunteers, Desert Awareness Park is 26 acres of educational and outstanding natural wealth. There are self-guided tours through the Park to allow for exploration of the land’s desert plants and flowers. Significant changes can be seen through the seasons: autumn brings lush leaves, winter brings flowers, seeds, and berries, and spring brings a bounty of cacti with delightfully colored flowers. Ramadas and barbecues enable visitors to enjoy lunch in the outdoors, and there’s a playground for the kids.