With a population close to 1.5 million, formerly the imperial capital of Japan, Kyoto is now the capital of Kyoto Prefecture and a major part of the Osaka-Kobe-Kyoto metropolitan area. Kyoto was the emperor's residence from 794 until 1868.
The city of Hiroshima was founded in 1589, and in 1945 it became the first city in history assaulted by nuclear armament when the United States of America dropped an atomic bomb on it.
Situated on the banks of the Ganges River, Varanasi is a Hindu holy city, dating back to 3000 BC.
With world-class surfing and diving, cultural and historical attractions, and an enormous range of accommodations, this is one of the world's most popular island destinations.
