The town of Nikko is famous for it's over the top decorated temples, waterfalls, hot springs and mausoleum of the founder of the Tokugawa shogunate. Admire the silence, gold and colors in just a day trip away from Tokyo. Nikko / Japan 2004 (sorry for the photo
Hidden in the Hida mountains, you'll find the little town of Takayama. Fresh air, beautiful surroundings and a well preserved old town for the perfect little rural get-away from Tokyo. Takayama / Japan 2004 (sorry for the photo quality, the digital cams weren't so good in 2004
There are literally thousands of temples in Kyoto, so many that you cannot visit them all even if you try hard during a visit. Sixteen of the temples are listed as World Heritage, which should be your priority ones, but don't forget to enjoy everything