Odyssey in the heart of Japan’s subtropical islands

Osaka combines traditional elements with modern technology. Located on the Pacific Ocean, the city is large but has some areas that feel calm. One of its most well-known historic sites is Osaka Castle, built in the 16th century and surrounded by modern skyscrapers. Popular areas like Dotomburi and Shinsekai are known for their busy streets and unique atmosphere. Many local restaurants serve regional dishes such as takoyaki (octopus balls) and kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers).

Shingu is a port town in the Kansai region, located on the Kii Peninsula, Japan’s largest peninsula. Founded in 1933, it is near the Kumano Sanzan religious complex, which includes three sacred mountains and two Shinto temples: Kumano Hongu Taisha and Kumano Hayatama Taisha. Kumano Hayatama Taisha is known for its ancient nagi tree, believed to have been planted around 1159. Both temples are part of a UNESCO World Heritage site and attract many pilgrims. Nearby, the Dorokyo Gorge can be explored by boat; it is a natural area shaped by the Kumano River.

The fourth largest island in the Nippon archipelago, Shikoku, is also the best preserved. Here, forests and oceans stretch as far as the eye can see. On the southern coast of the island, Kochi, the tranquil metropolis quietly welcomes you. You can enjoy a lively town, with many commercial centers and restaurants. On the menu, katsuo tataki, a local speciality with delicately grilled fish. But Kochi, overlooked by the benevolent shadow of its castle, also invites you to explore its magnificent Katsurahama beach, its museums and Buddhist temples, the site of a famous annual pilgrimage.

The seaside city of Kagoshima, at the south of Kyushu Island, ﾠis best known for Sakurajima, an active volcano that faces Kinko Bay. A visit to this busy metropolis reminds you just how much the volcano is part of the inhabitants' everyday life: in the wake of the almost daily eruptions, a delicate layer of ash settles on everything. The top of a buried torii (traditional Japanese gate) measuring three meters that was 'swallowed up' by a giant lava flow in 1914 can still be seen. The power of nature sends a shiver down your spine.

Yakushima is a striking island in the South of Japan, covered in forest and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Hikers are very fond of this destination because of the lush vegetation, Mount Miyanoura, the waterfalls and cascades. But without a doubt, the symbol of the island remains its many age-old cedar trees which is said to have inspired some of the scenes in the animated film Princess Mononoke. On this island, you also find wildlife including the Japanese macaque, the sika deer, and green sea turtles which lay their eggs on the magnificent sandy beaches here.

To the north of the island of Okinawa, lying between the azure ocean and lush hills, Motobu inspires contemplation. This Japanese paradise, far off the beaten track, unveils landscapes steeped in poetry. A setting of pristine nature, with Mount Yae as a backdrop, Motobu reveals itself through its white sandy forests and its wild and preserved Yambaru forest, home to a rare wealth of fauna and flora. The hiking paths invite you to explore this incomparable nature, where every step reveals breathtaking panoramas and age-old legends.

Capital of Okinawa Prefecture, the town of Naha is located on the south-west of the island. You love its lively atmosphere, particularly along Kokusai Dori, otherwise known as 'international street'. The picturesque Makishi Public Market, nicknamed 'Naha's kitchen' offers a profusion of colorful fish, Okinawan foodstuffs and local spices and you can sample delicacies cooked on the spot.

Situated between the East China Sea and the Philippine Sea, Miyakojima is the main island of the Miyako Islands, in the Sakishima archipelago. The fourth largest island in the Okinawa prefecture, it is known for its many sugar cane plantations and some of Japan’s most beautiful beaches. Myriad multicolored fish await you during unforgettable swims and snorkeling.

Located to the south of the main island of the Yaeyama archipelago, Ishigaki boasts all the aspects of an authentic piece of paradise. You have guessed it, you do not come here for its skyscrapers but for its pure emerald waters and idyllic beaches. The waters off Shiraho, on the island's south-west coast, have one of the largest areas of blue coral in the world.

On the north-east tip of Taiwan, the harbor city of Keelung stands on one of the most beautiful coasts on the island. Nearby is the spectacular natural park of Yehliu, famed for its striking rock formations. It's easy to tour the city's historical sites on trails that cross the lush green hills surrounding the harbor from Chung Cheng Park to Fort Ershawan, you can enjoy superb views of Keelung and the coastline. But the main attraction is the Miaokou night market, where you can taste some typically Taiwanese culinary delights.