Japan: Ancient Nara

Score: 78

"The deer, the big Buddha, the architecture, the plants and flowers, and the courtesy of local people make this a delightful visitor destination."

"National and local government agencies keep a watchful eye over this ancient capital; the result is stringent preservation regulations."

"Nara is not as charming a destination as it was 20 years ago due to the incremental redevelopment of the city and the sanitization of the environment around the temples. Restoration and maintenance is immaculate."

Japan: Kamakura

Score: 74

"Kamakura doesn't match Kyoto or Nara for its historic features, but works wonderfully as a modern city and seaside destination for Japanese tourists. I felt I had stepped into a Kawabata novel when I visited."

"Still functions as a community and religious site. Some infringement of modernity, but I like the mix. Not as sanitized as other places."

"The Kamakura Buddha and nearby monasteries are in good shape, but the area is very heavily visited and feels a bit overrun by tourism."

Japan: Nikko historic areas

Score: 81

"A temple site composed of three religious precincts located in a large, mountainous public park."

"Nikko is in an especially beautiful part of Japan, and its hills, waterfalls, and general environment are well maintained. Japanese tea gardens, perfectly manicured, provide an excellent backdrop. Japanese monks welcome tourists, and there does not appear to be any conflict. Stewardship is very professional and addresses primarily the domestic visitor."

"Well-protected historic buildings. The main shrines are generally overloaded by tour groups, but the aesthetic appeal of the historic center remains high."

"Beautiful and walkable. Nearby natural areas—at higher elevation—add to Nikko's general attractiveness. Problems with monkey population."

"So well-ordered I am wishing for an explosion of the monkey population."