Even if you are familiar with how Asia works, Japan is another planet, with Tokyo its epicenter of extremes. On one hand, traditions are fiercely protected, with the Meiji shrine and Imperial Palace, the charming streets of Kagurazaka, and the general adherence to quaint rules and impeccable manners central to any trip. But to wander around Ginza's wall-to-wall luxury brand stores, Harajuku's goths, brides and fashion on a Sunday, Shinjuku's warren of slot machine centers, and the expanses of neon shining down on the drunken masses in Roppongi, and you can't help but feel that Tokyo's future is arriving faster than the rest of the world's.

While Tokyo can be difficult to navigate for the uninitiated foreigner, that onerous task is made a lot less daunting by the warmth and helpfulness of the Japanese. Look to the younger generations to find a westernized force to help you blend in a little more and appreciate this country's fascinating psyche. Happy to help should you look lost, they will go out of their way to make sure you have the best experience possible in their hometown.

And in a spa, this inevitably leads to experiences that are simply sublime. The national character of extreme politeness, coupled with an innate attention to detail and gentleness, means spa rituals are leant an additional element of refinement, whether in the beautiful expanses of five-star luxury, the more affordable day spas, or an onsen, sento or tiny shiatsu massage parlor.