The Blue Mountains are named for the delicate azure haze that lingers along the region, which is actually a fine cloud of oil emitted by eucalyptus trees. The mystical mountains are a labyrinth of plateaus, gorges and gum trees. Check out the Katoomba Scenic Railway (the steepest railway in the world), the Jenolan Caves and the Giant Staircase nature walk.

Kangaroo Island is the epitome of variety, ripe with pristine beaches, historic lighthouses, conservation land, underground caves, rare honeybees, gourmet local delicacies and… penguins. Book a tour with the Kangaroo Island Penguin Centre to watch these tuxedoed darlings waddle along the water, then tuck into a hearty dinner featuring native ingredients like rich sheep’s-milk cheese, freshwater marron, olive oil and boutique wine. The island’s art galleries showcase the woodworking, glass-blowing and furniture-making talents of local craftsmen.

Located in the south of China, the cityscape--Shenzhen-- is home to some of the most modern buildings worldwide. Although this area is largely industrial, it offers many tourist attractions, such as the Chinese folk Culture Village, Safari Park, and beach resorts. Perhaps one of the most frequented tourist attractions is Window of the World, which offers replicas of the Eiffel tower, the pyramids, and Taj Mahal. 

Tradition collides with pop culture in Tokyo, where you can reverently wander ancient temples before rocking out at a karaoke bar. Wake up before the sun to catch the lively fish auction at the Toyosu Market, then refresh with a walk beneath the cherry blossom trees that line the Sumida River. Spend some time in the beautiful East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, then brush up on your Japanese history at the Edo-Tokyo Museum. Don’t forget to eat as much sushi, udon noodles, and wagashi (Japanese sweets) as your belly can handle.

The shrines and temples of Nikko have been recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. Here, you can visit the Toshogu Shrine, which dates from the 17th century and is a monument to (and the mausoleum of) Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of a shogunate that ruled Japan for 250 years. Travelers day-tripping from Tokyo generally focus on the sacred sites, but if you have extra time, explore the area’s beautiful waterfalls and lakes.