TWO Japanese cities have been listed as go-to destinations this year, according to The New York Times.
Morioka, the capital city of Iwate Prefecture, and Fukuoka, the capital city of Fukuoka Prefecture, were revealed as the two cities out of 52 selected places around the world.
Japan National Tourism Organisation Kuala Lumpur executive director, Fumi Matsumoto said since Japan's relaxation of border control measures, many foreign tourists flock to places such as Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto and Hokkaido.
"However, vibrant cities like Morioka and Fukuoka are still favourites for Malaysians to discover," she added.
Japanese Ambassador to Malaysia Takahashi Katsuhiko, whose hometown was listed, welcomes Malaysians to visit Marioka and enjoy the city, which is described as "a walkable gem without the crowds".
The city is known for its early 20th-century architecture that combines Western and traditional Japanese aesthetics, built during the Taisho era (1912-1926).
One of its main attractions is the Morioka Castle Ruins Park, which is built on the ruins of an ancient castle and was chosen as one of the Top 100 City Parks in Japan in 1989.
Accessible from Tokyo by Shinkansen (high-speed train), Morioka comes in second place in the list of 52 places, just below London.
It also highlights the Iwate Prefecture specialty food, wanko soba or buckwheat noodles served in small portions which are continuously served up until diners have had their fill.
Fukuoka, the largest city in Kyushu, on the other hand, sits at the 19th spot.
This port city is located on the southwestern island of Kyushu. It is one of the few remaining cities that retains the yatai culture, which refers to open-air street-food stalls serving a variety of food, ranging from ramen to yakitori (chicken skewers), coffee and wine. Nakasu Island in central Fukuoka is where many yatai can be found.
Internationally recognised for its food culture, Fukuoka is also the birthplace of mentaiko (cured pollock roe) and tonkotsu ramen.
From Malaysia, Fukuoka is accessible by domestic flight via Haneda or Kansai (Osaka) international airports.