By visiting these four cities, you and your SO can enjoy the best of Japanese romance, trends, history, and cuisine. 

Trend Setting in Tokyo

In Japan there is no shortage of new technology and fashion to entice our trend setting tastes. At the Sony Towers, DINKs can experience the latest in robotics and gaming through a series of hands-on exhibits and demonstrations. Across town in Hirajuku, people-watch to your heart's delight. Throughout the day in this neighborhood, edgy youth parade across the park wearing the latest renditions of goth and patent leather trends. Dark lipstick and heavy boots are popular accessories as Japan's counterculture strut their best. At night, stroll arm and arm through the neon-lit night districts. Here, amorous travelers scout for discreetly hidden love hotels where themed rooms offer tricked out karaoke stages, heart-shape pools, and disco globes. Even restaurants push stylistic buttons, pairing fusion international foods with decor ranging from Halloween gore to ultra-modern minimalism. 

Culinary Sanctuary in Osaka

Foodies rejoice and prepare to indulge in some amazing fusion foods, authentic cuisine, and even street snacks. After all, here, the cuisine is nearly as important as the sightseeing. While Tokyoites typically spend their extra money on technology and toys, those living in Osaka choose most often to splurge on the delectable culinary cuisine options throughout the city. Italian, Indian, and Thai restaurants mingle on sidewalks with tapas bars and traditional candy shops. But Osaka has its own spin on dishes. For fast food versions of Japanese fare, order a table for two and sidle up for kaiten, or sushi served on a conveyor belt. Dishes are color-coded, indicating prices. Just pluck platters off the belt, eat, and stack plates on your table. After a night of carousing through bars and lounges, head to a noodle shop for a heaping bowl of real ramen. A meal in a bowl, egg noodles swim in a hearty broth with veggies and meat accoutrement. Inexpensive and delicious, this dish is a national favorite. But before leaving the city, you and your partner in crime must sample the regional specialty called okonomiyaki: a savory pancake made with vegetables, meat, seafood, and a soy sauce-based glaze. Fast versions are sold on the street and in markets. For hands-on fun with your mate, head to an okonomiyaki grill where you can pile your ingredients on hot griddles and sip beer as they sizzle down into the city’s favorite snack.

[Continued...Kyoto and Hiroshima]