Yatsushiro, Japan

Located on the west coast of Japan’s southernmost island, Kumamoto is close enough for day trips to Nagasaki, Fukuoka and Aso-san. But stay in town and you’ll find plenty to do, including exploring one of Japan’s “Three Famous Castles.” Kumamoto Castle in the center of town was built in 1601 and features massive, curved stone walls and 600 cherry blossom trees that bloom each spring. Also stroll a shopping arcade more than half a mile long, stopping in one of the many restaurants along the way to try delicious Kumamoto-style ramen noodles served in a rich pork broth.