As Kyōto's most iconic landmark, Kinkaku-Ji (literally the "Temple of the Golden Pavillion"), is undoubtedly astonishing. Built in 1397, the complex was the retirement villa of the Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu. Soon after his death in 1408, the structure was converted into a Zen temple of the Rinzai sect by his son. Engulfed in flames several times throughout the ages, the current complex was rebuilt true to the original in 1955 (except for the top two floors that were both covered in gold leaf). Thousands of sightseers pack the site to glance at the breathtaking Gold Temple, its reflection shimmering in the serene pond in a picturesque setting. It's best to go early in the morning or just before closing to avoid queuing in notoriously slow-moving lines.

The Super DC-3 aircraft crashed into Sólheimasandur back in 1973, thankfully leaving its seven crew members unharmed. Since then the empty husk of a plane has been left exposed to the elements, rusting away in constant humidity and cracking from constant freezes and thaws. The wreckage is a particularly beloved spot by local and visiting photographers thanks to its sparse and wild surrounding black sand landscape and its incredible visual contrast to the aircraft’s gnarled metal carcass. To visit the plane wreck, you can join organised hiking, horse riding or ATV riding tours, take a bus or get there by yourself. Remember, that driving over the sands is considered to be driving off-road and carries heavy fines. Lastly, the wreck is located pretty close to the village of Vik made famous after a popular Netflix series Katla.

The huge 326 acre Common park, just a short walk from the city centre, is a haven for flora and fauna and has been designated as UNESCO site of special scientific interest. The Hawthorns Urban Wildlife Centre gives visitors the opportunity to learn about the local ecology and wildlife.