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6 heritage towns in Japan to rival Kyoto

National Geographic
Summary
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82% Informative

There are dozens of ancient cities and towns to explore across Japan .

Nara was the capital of Japan before Kyoto and is easy to get around on two wheels.

Hiraizumi rivalled Kyoto in terms of splendour and power in the 12th century .

Matsumoto Castle , set against a backdrop of white-topped peaks, is an iconic image of Japan .

Japan spans more than 1,900 miles , so the weather varies dramatically from region to region.

Avoid Golden Week ( late April to early May ) and Obon ( mid-August ) throughout the country.

The shoulder seasons of spring and autumn are generally the most temperate, with averages of 21 -23C in May and October .