3 Best Sights in Kyoto, Japan

The tables are turned at this primate reserve where humans enter a cage-like hut while the resident monkeys roam free—except when clinging to the cage's fencing to grab peanuts offered by visitors. Outside the hut humans and monkeys are free to mingle, and there 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 hike to the hill-top hut takes 20 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 dolphin stadium are also popular.