Osaka, forming the second-largest metropolitan area in Japan, is the largest city in West Japan. Popular tourist cities such as Kyoto, Nara, and Kobe are all reachable within one hour from the center of Osaka. Each district within Osaka has its own unique charm. For example, Namba is the world's largest commercial district, Umeda is known for its bustling vibe, and Shinsekai is renowned for its abundance of popular restaurants. Osaka is also famous for its street food delicacies such as takoyaki (octopus balls), okonomiyaki (Osaka-style savory pancakes), and kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers). In the lively Kuromon Market, you can indulge in shopping while savoring Osaka's delectable cuisine.

Cherry blossoms can be admired in Osaka from late March to early April at places such as Osaka Castle Park, Expo '70 Commemorative Park, and Nagai Park.

Nagoya, located in Aichi Prefecture, is a vibrant and charming metropolis, forming the third-largest metropolitan area in Japan. The city offers plenty of attractions, including the magnificent Nagoya Castle and Atsuta Shrine. It is also home to shopping districts such as Sakae and Osu, as well as internet-popular theme parks such as Legoland Japan and Ghibli Park on the outskirts. Nagoya's unique delicacies, such as the eel dish known as "Hitsumabushi" and the miso nikomi udon (miso stewed udon), are highly popular among visitors.

As a transportation hub in the Chubu Region of Japan, Nagoya is well-connected by trains and express buses, which makes it a gateway to famous tourist destinations such as the gassho-zukuri villages of Shirakawa-go (world heritage sites), the Gero Onsen hot spring, Ise-Shima National Park, and Kumano Kodo pilgrimage routes (world heritage sites).

Cherry blossoms can be admired from late March to early April every year at places such as Meijo Park, Heiwa Park, and Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens.

Niigata is a coastal city facing the Sea of Japan. From Niigata, you can reach Tokyo, the capital of Japan, in just two hours by Shinkansen bullet trains. As one of Japan's major rice-producing regions, Niigata is renowned for its high-quality branded rice which is considered the finest in Japan.

The mountainous area of Niigata, with heavy snowfall every winter, is the birthplace of skiing in Japan. Currently, there are 48 ski resorts in Niigata, offering plenty of enjoyment for winter sports enthusiasts. Many of these ski resorts are conveniently located near hot springs, providing a relaxing way to soothe tired muscles after a day on the slopes.

The "toki" or Japanese crested ibis, which is famous for its beautiful pale pink wings and was once considered a symbol of Japan, used to be on the brink of extinction due to environmental pollution and excessive fishing. Since 1999, efforts have been made to breed the toki at the Sado Toki Conservation Centre in Niigata, with the toki donated by China. Thanks to these conservation efforts, the toki has escaped extinction. Now, the toki on Sado Island in Niigata serves as a symbol of friendship between China and Japan.

Cherry blossoms can be admired in April every year at various places in Niigata, including Toyanogata Park, Takada Castle Site Park, and Shibata Castle Ruins Park.