For a taste of Japanese history, this is where you’ll find Japan’s largest collection of Asian artefacts. The main gallery, Honkan, displays an impressive assortment of swords, masks, wood-block prints and kimonos while other must-see features include the 7th-century bronze-seated Buddhas in the Horyu-ji Homotusukan.

This steep and winding street is the most photographed street in San Francisco. Tourists come to the Russian Hill to see, drive or walk down the "crookedest street in the world," that has in total eight hairpin turns. The Hyde Street Cable Car makes a stop at the top of Lombard Street. From there, you can get amazing views of the Fisherman’s Wharf and the Bay.

One of, if not the most important centres for justice and peace in the world, Peace Palace comprises the United Nations International Court of Justice, the Permanent Court of Arbitration, the Hague Academy of International Law and the Peace Palace Library. Although this is a working palace, which means most areas are closed to the public, there is, however, a visitors centre where those interested can learn more about the history of the palace and the role it plays today in international justice via a free audio tour. On rare occasions, the palace opens its doors to the public for guided tours, but it is advisable to check well in advance if any dates are available as they are few and far between. In any case, the impressive surrounding gardens and Neo-Renaissance buildings are definitely a must-see.