Animal lovers and eco-warriors will adore Dunedin’s abundant wildlife. The albatross, for example, can fly with its three-metre wingspan at speeds of up to 115 kilometres per hour. You have the chance to see these majestic creatures from the observatory at Dunedin’s Royal Albatross Centre at Taiaroa Head.

Shimokitazawa, lovingly abbreviated to Shimokita, is a celebrated bohemian enclave just a few stops from Shibuya. It offers a distinct, relaxed counterpoint to Tokyo's central intensity. The labyrinth of narrow, pedestrian-friendly lanes is a haven for vintage clothing stores, independent boutiques and intimate live music venues. While recent developments like the Mikan Shimokita and Reload complexes have modernised the area around the station, the district's soul remains in its backstreets, packed with quirky cafés, second-hand bookshops and eclectic bars. The neighbourhood is roughly divided into two distinct vibes. The south side buzzes with restaurants and nightlife, while the north offers a more laid-back atmosphere for browsing and coffee. Despite ongoing gentrification, Shimokitazawa retains its creative, slightly scruffy spirit, making it the perfect place to spend an afternoon hunting for vintage treasures before settling into a cosy bar for the evening.

Situated in the North East corner of the island, Old Perithia is an abandoned village steeped in history, dating back to the 14th century. Once home to a vibrant farming community, this charming village offers an inviting space for exploration, with its medieval stone houses and churches. It’s also a great place to unwind and savour the moment, relishing a delightful drink at one of the local tavernas.

The district of Ueno functions as a major transport hub and a concentrated centre for culture and commerce. Its core is Ueno Park, a spacious public ground that contains several major institutions. These include the Ueno Zoo, the Tokyo National Museum with its comprehensive Japanese collection, the National Museum of Nature and Science, and the National Museum of Western Art. South of the station, the Ameya-Yokochō market street presents a different atmosphere. This crowded street with covered alleyways started as a post-war black market, and now features vendors selling seafood, clothing and spices.