Nantes — spirited and audacious — blends a storied past with fresh creativity: once a bustling seaport tied to the slave trade, it honors memory while reinventing life, art and neighborhoods.

Coined the "City of a Thousand Temples," Kyoto oozes old world charm, steeped in centuries of spiritual tradition. It's also the perfect jumping off point for areas like Japan’s Fushimi Inari Taisha, Arashiyama Bamboo Forest and Nara Park.

Having lived in Asia, Japan still baffled me: confusing trains, dramatic weather and wild solo adventures — use these Japan travel tips to plan your escape.