3 Best Sights in Kyoto, Japan

The tables are turned at this primate reserve where humans enter a cagelike hut while the resident monkeys roam free—except when clinging to the cage's fencing to grab peanuts offered by visitors (you can buy some monkey food once you get to the hut). Outside the hut humans and monkeys are free to mingle, and there are great views out over the city. Scientists at Kyoto University's Primate Research Institute track the movement of these macaques, the most northern monkeys in the world.  The strenuous hike to the hilltop hut takes 20 to 30 minutes up a steep paved path. Look for entrance at the southern end of the Togetsukyo Bridge.

Inspired by the multitude of rivers that flow into the Kyoto basin, this landlocked city opened an aquarium to display Kyoto's native salamander, a large specimen that dwells deep in forest streams. Holding 500 tons of water, the main pool is truly one of a kind. A horseshoe-shape pool gives you the illusion that you're swimming with sea lions. The penguins and the dolphin stadium are also popular.