Like so many important port towns, Edo started off as a sleepy fishing village. This one, however, surprisingly grew up to become Japan’s capital, the biggest metro area on earth… and was later renamed “Tokyo.” For decades now it’s felt a bit like it’s living in the future… and you can probably say it is, with all the tech and neon and energy that flows throughout iconic neighborhoods like Akihabra and Shibuya. But with all the upgrades installed, Tokyo’s traditional culture hasn’t been replaced, best seen through the residential neighborhoods of narrow streets lined with traditional homes. And that’s not to mention the green spaces, like the city’s ample national parks, gardens, shrines and temples. Some can’t-miss spots are Imperial Palace Plaza in the city center, Tokyo Tower — which tops even the Eiffel Tower — plus the imposing Mount Fuji is always happy to join the city’s skyline for a photo.