From its rich history and breathtaking landscapes to its unique and delectable cuisine, Japan is a dynamic country with so much to offer. Aside from its famous and frequented capital of Tokyo, there are more places in this Asian destination that can tickle your taste buds and pique your interest in history and sights.
The delectable flavors of Osaka
The third largest city in Japan is home to more than 90 Michelin-starred restaurants. Among them, the Michelin 3-Star restaurant Hajime is where you’ll get to delight in the best French dishes in Japan created by Chef Hajime Yoneda who is dubbed by Le Chef magazine as one of the best representative chefs in the world.
For the best seafood, Michelin 2-Star Sushi Harasho serves the finest sushi in all of Japan. Sushi Harasho is also known for having only eight seats, but Mastercard holders can easily enjoy the quiet and elegant atmosphere of this popular sushi restaurant.
Osaka Cuisine ASAI, on the other hand, offers an authentic taste of traditional Japanese cuisine. Choose from over 150 dishes, which change according to season, and are specially created by the chef. Meanwhile, Michelin 3-Star restaurant Kashiwaya is where you will be able to experience classical Japanese kaiseki (multicourse) cuisine and relax in your very own private tea room.
Mastercard cardholders can elevate their dining experience in Osaka with exclusive offers on bookings in the city’s most sought-after restaurants Mastercard partners with online booking service Voyagin, so you can wine and dine like a VIP.
The breathtaking sights of Nagoya
Though renowned for its industrial core, Nagoya also boasts beautiful parks, fantastic museums, and of course, the Nagoya Castle. The original structure was built between 1610 and 1614 by the Tokugawa family. Today’s replica is where you’ll find treasures, an armor collection, and histories of the Oda, Toyotomi, and Tokugawa families.
Apart from captivating historical structures, Nagoya is also home to a world-class destination that is worth a trip for both kids and parents, LEGOLAND. Make sure to plan a full day here because there are over 40 rides, numerous shows and themed attractions, 17 million LEGO bricks, and 10,000 LEGO models for everyone in the family to experience.
Mastercard cardholders can enjoy a special offer of JPY200 off on admission tickets to this LEGO paradise.
The winter getaway in Hokkaido
Hokkaido is famous for being a skier’s paradise with its blanket of snow covering wide, open spaces. Its hot springs and elegant Ryokan hotels make it a favorite choice among travelers who are looking for a relaxing getaway as well.
For a world-class skiing experience, Hokkaido’s Niseko Village reigns as the number one choice with its 800 skiable hectares, soft and light powdery snow, ski schools, beginner slopes and the more advanced ones like black diamonds.
While you’re on a snowcapped getaway, experience authentic Japanese hospitality in the Ryokan Collection—an exquisite chain of luxury ryokans or traditional Japanese inns, which provides lavish meals and a private onsen (Japanese bath).
Mastercard gives you access to exclusive experiences like in-house personal masseuses and offers like complimentary breakfast and room upgrades in other hotels in Japan.
Hokkaido is a place where you can also give yourself a well-deserved dose of retail therapy in Japan’s premium outlet malls, where you’ll find extensive selections of local and international brands across categories like fashion, gadgets, home, and luxury goods. If you’re looking for a great place to start head to one of the Mitsui Outlet Parks spread all over Japan, like Mitsui Outlet Park Sapporo Kitohiroshima. Mastercard rewards your shopping experience in the Mitsui Outlets with up to 10 percent discounts.