While popular attractions have their respective appeal, more esoteric destinations in Japan can whet the appetites of more seasoned adventurers. One such place is Enoshima, a quiet island off the Kamakura coast.

Niemonjima. Have you heard of it? If you're not a history buff, then perhaps you haven't. Located off the coast of southwest Chiba, this tiny landmass was the secret hideaway of one of the greatest generals in Japanese history. Minamoto-no-Yoritomo was one of the founders of the Kamakura Shogunate, and after a battle with a rivaling faction, he fled for safety behind the shoreline rocks of Niemonjima.

Located near the JR Shinjuku Southeast Exit, this restaurant rests near a bridge leading into the Takashimaya Department Store. Countless sets of nostalgia grace the walls of the restaurant, all commemorating the illustrious career of pro-wrestler turned politician, Antonio Inoki.

However, you can find that happy medium of both the comforts of fresh, wholesome deliciousness that doesn’t leave you feeling guilty after your last forkful of sustenance. You can find such delicacies within the realm of the macrobiotic diet.

The moment you venture into the infoshop, be prepared to gaze upon reams of posters, books, “zines,” t-shirts, and other goods that favor countercultural ideas. From anarchist thinkers such as Mikhail Bakunin to early Japanese nonconformists like Noe Ito and Kotoku Shusui, you’ll find something to sink your political teeth into without much trouble.

Shinjuku is an interesting place. No matter where you turn, you’re bound to find something that will spark your interest or pique your curiosity. It is at those moments when you realize that you’ve stumbled upon gold. When you’ve created a moment that will last you a lifetime. That is what Scopp Cafe represents.

The gritty streets of Kabukicho contrast with the majesty of Mosaic Street, where couples walk hand in hand under decorative lights. One cannot explore the area in its entirety on an empty stomach, so let’s cover some of the best vegetarian/vegan restaurants you’ll find on your journey.

Located in Takadanobaba, Cafe VG is about a 5-minute walk from the Tozai Line and an even shorter walk from Waseda University. With the restaurant hidden in a shaded corner, Cafe VG may be hard to spot initially, so be sure to keep your eyes peeled.

Whether you’re a member of the famous university, a former graduate or a tourist looking to explore an area less traveled, the Uni-125 Cafe is sure to liven up your overall experience.

Uji - a place that harbors all the charms of major cities like Kyoto, Osaka and Kobe, but remains on the sidelines, rewarding those who seek to venture outside of the tourist guide. With a countless number of places you can go and experiences you can have in the city, here are a few to get you started.

Kukai is a quiet establishment tucked away in an alley near Ikuta Shrine in Kobe. Although you have an array of choices on the menu, most patrons come for one thing and one thing only; the Kobe beef okonomiyaki.

There are dozens of curry shops to choose from in the area, but we will focus on a few restaurants that have set the bar high in terms of gastronomical delight.