A must-see for every boy: the Ninja Castle in Iga Ueno! The castle is located in Iga Ueno between Osaka and Nagoya. The small town is the birthplace for the great Haiku Master, Matsuo Basho, and also celebrates several famous annual festivals.

The Castle itself contains a Ninja museum with hidden walls and various Ninja secrets. Children can participate in the hourly Ninja show and learn some Ninja techniques. A recommendation for children is to start the day by borrowing ninja customs at the Danjiri Parade Museum close by. The clothes can be worn throughout the day around the fortress.

Todaji Temple is the World’s largest wooden building, and it contains a massive Buddha figure. The Temple was completed in year 752, and is a breathtaking experience. The surrounding Nara Park is inhabited by Deers, creating a unique atmosphere. Nara was the oldest capital of Japan (710-784), and is a quiet (but gorgeous) alternative to Kyoto for Tourists. A lot of superlatives, but there are no other ways to describe this place.

Kinkakuji is the most famous part of the Rokuon-ji Temple. The building was previously a gordeous villa. The building is covered with gold-leaf on Japanese lacquer, and is one of the most amazing sights in Kyoto, the former capitol of Japan.