Board a 21st century marvel, a gleaming shinkansen, or bullet train, that breaks records for speed, safety, and reliability. Alight from your high-tech train ride to see Kokura Castle, which was built in 1569. The castle's keep has an unusual feature in that the fifth story is larger than the fourth. The building has a dramatic history; there have been devasting fires and it's been a casualty in many of the tribal and territorial battles fought in the region. At last, it was rebuilt after World War II using modern technique. From the castle, a short walk along stone steps brings you to a luxuriant garden that surrounds a tranquil pond. Watch for the carp glittering like jewels and flitting about in the water.
8 trackers
174 price points