TOKYO: Tokyo is Japan’s capital and the world’s most populous metropolis. It is also one of Japan’s 47 prefectures, consisting of 23 central city wards and multiple cities, towns and villages west of the city center. The Izu and Ogasawara Islands are also part of Tokyo. Today, Tokyo offers a seemingly unlimited choice of shopping, entertainment, culture and dining to its visitors. The city’s history can be appreciated in districts such as Asakusa, and in many excellent museums, historic temples and gardens. Contrary to common perception, Tokyo also offers a number of attractive green spaces in the city center and within relatively short train rides at its outskirts.
SEOUL: At first glance, Seoul is a city in a hurry. New development is shooting up around town and everyone, it seems, is rushing somewhere. This is as true in the modern business districts as it is in the maze of markets. But Seoul also has pockets of quiet—parks and palaces where the pace of life slows to a crawl as soon as one enters. While Seoul’s main draw is experiencing this contrast of energy and tranquility, the city is full of excellent food, interesting arts and crafts, and has a number of impressive historic sites. Seoul is an intense city, and while great for urban explorers, travelers looking for a more relaxing experience may not want to spend too much of their trip here.