13 Night Japan, South
Korea & Taiwan

Hong Kong

It is hard to believe that what was once a
sleepy, sparsely populated area of farmland and fishing villages
has now become arguably the world's most influential financial
capital and commercial port. Past and present fuse in Hong Kong to
create a capitalist utopia embedded within the world's largest
communist country. There is nowhere on earth quite like Hong Kong,
which is reason enough for anyone to travel here.

The city, or 'Central' as it has become
known, sits on the north shore of Hong Kong Island, the tourist
capital and the original territory colonised by the British.
Central is backed by the green hills of Victoria Peak and looks out
over Victoria Harbour, home to annual firework displays and
promenades forming natural meeting points for tourists and locals
alike.

The city of Hong Kong, despite its
surviving traditional enclaves, feels delightfully futuristic. The
vast majority of the more than 350 skyscrapers in Hong Kong are
concentrated in Central, and this glittering night-time skyline is
one of the most iconic in the world. The speed of modernisation and
construction means that few colonial buildings now remain, with the
oldest surviving being Flagstaff House, dating back to 1846 and now
home to the Museum of Tea Ware.

Hong Kong is a booming business hub, a
fashion centre and a celebrated foodie destination. The diversity
of its population and cultural influences add hugely to its unique
appeal. In addition to all its impressive sightseeing attractions
visitors will be happy to discover just how well everything works.
Most notably, the efficient transport system makes getting around a
pleasure.

Keelung (Chilung)

Keelung, also known as Keelung City, is a bustling port city situated in northern Taiwan. With a convenient location just 25 kilometers northeast of Taipei, it serves as a gateway to the island's beautiful northeastern coast. Known for its vibrant street food scene, stunning natural scenery, and rich cultural heritage, Keelung is a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike.

One of the main attractions in Keelung is its historic district, which showcases the city's cultural legacy. Here, visitors can explore the lively streets filled with traditional Taiwanese architecture, temples, and small shops. Of particular interest is the renowned Miaokou Night Market, known for its delectable array of local snacks and fresh seafood. From oyster omelets to braised pork rice, this market is a food lover's paradise.

For those seeking a tranquil outdoor experience, Keelung's coastline is a must-visit. One of the most famous landmarks is the Yehliu Geopark, where visitors can marvel at unique rock formations created by thousands of years of erosion. The most iconic rock formation is "Queen's Head," which resembles the profile of Queen Elizabeth. Additionally, the nearby Keelung Islet offers hiking opportunities and panoramic views of the coast.

Another highlight of Keelung is its vibrant festival scene. The annual Ghost Festival, held in August, is one of the city's most significant celebrations. During this time, elaborate ceremonies and processions take place to honor ancestors and appease wandering spirits. The festival is known for its impressive parade featuring traditional music, dance performances, and colorful costumes.

In addition to its cultural and natural attractions, Keelung is also home to several modern landmarks. The Keelung Harbor is one of the largest and busiest ports in Taiwan, making it a hub for international trade. Visitors can take a boat tour of the harbor to get a closer look at the industrial activities and enjoy panoramic views of the city skyline.

Shopaholics will find joy in exploring the Zhongzheng Road Shopping Area, where an array of shops, boutiques, and department stores offer a wide range of goods. From trendy fashion to local handicrafts, there is something for everyone's tastes and budgets. The shopping district is also home to vibrant street performances and events, adding to the lively atmosphere.

For those interested in Taiwan's naval history, a visit to the Maritime Plaza is a must. This open-air museum showcases a collection of naval artifacts and displays, providing insights into Taiwan's maritime traditions and history. The museum also features an observation deck, offering panoramic views of the harbor and Keelung's surrounding mountains.

Getting around Keelung is convenient, thanks to its well-connected transportation system. The city has a comprehensive network of buses and taxis, making it easy to travel to different attractions. Additionally, a railway line provides easy access to Taipei and other parts of Taiwan.

In terms of weather, Keelung has a subtropical climate with mild temperatures throughout the year. However, it is known for its frequent rainfall, so visitors are advised to pack an umbrella or raincoat when exploring the city.

In conclusion, Keelung is a vibrant and diverse city that offers a mix of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and a bustling cityscape. Whether you're interested in exploring its historic streets, indulging in mouthwatering street food, or enjoying breathtaking coastal landscapes, Keelung has something for everyone.

Seogwipo

South Korea is a country of natural wonders, teeming metropolises, and romantic legends. Tourist discover the hidden treasures of the mountainous Korean peninsula, poking southwards from the eastern end of the Asian continent.

South Korea has been separated from North Korea by a demilitarised zone since 1953, flourishing to become a stable and mature democracy. Its 50 million people inhabit nine provinces and are concentrated in seven megacities.

Ringed by mountains, the capital of Seoul is the largest and most frequented city. The world's tenth largest city, its ancient shrines nestle beneath soaring skyscrapers in an urban sprawl of vibrant nightlife, unforgettable dining, and unique attractions.

Another area rich in tourist attractions is the southeastern region, with its wealth of archaeological treasures. Gyeongju, ancient capital of the Silla Kingdom, is an open-air museum boasting tombs, temples, pagodas, and ruins dating from as early as 57 BC.

With its luxury hotels, the Bomun Lake Resort is a fine base from which to explore the area. New resort complexes are currently under construction to open up this fascinating area to even more tourist opportunities.

The least populated area of the country is Gangwon-do Province, on the eastern side of the peninsula. Here, remote forested mountains and valleys are studded with small towns. This area, which played host to the Asian Winter Games in 1999, is fast becoming one of the world's most sought after skiing destinations. For the rest of the year, visitors are drawn to the province's magnificent beaches and scenic hiking trails.

Those seeking a romantic getaway should head for South Korea's resort island, Jejudo, known as 'Little Hawaii' because of its subtropical vegetation, volcanic landscape, sandy beaches, and sparkling waterfalls. The island is dominated by the towering Mount Halla volcano. But visitors need not fear a natural disaster as the volcano was last active in 1007.

Nagasaki

Nagasaki is a beautiful city located in southwestern Japan. The city is best known for its rich history and for being the site of the second nuclear bombing in history.

Nagasaki has a long and storied history. It was first settled by the Chinese in the 7th century and later became an important port for trade with both China and Korea. In the 16th century, Nagasaki was the only place in Japan where Europeans were allowed to trade, and it became an important base for the Portuguese and Dutch.

During World War II, Nagasaki was one of the largest shipbuilding centers in Japan. It was also the target of the second nuclear bombing in history. The bomb, which was dropped on August 9, 1945, killed an estimated 40,000 people. Nagasaki was rebuilt after the war and is now a thriving city with a population of over 1 million people.

Nagasaki is a must-visit for anyone interested in history or in seeing a city that has risen from the ashes of war. The city has a number of museums and memorials dedicated to its past, and its vibrant present makes it a great place to live or visit.

Fukuoka

Fukuoka, the largest city on the southern Japanese
island of Kyushu, was the home of the samurai and today is the
terminus of the famous Shinkansen Line bullet train from Tokyo, 730
miles (1,168km) away. Originally, the town of Hakata was the centre
of the region, acting as a gateway to Japan from the rest of Asia,
which lies just across a short strait.

The feudal town of Fukuoka, however, grew rapidly
just across the Nakagawa River, clustered around a castle. In the
late 19th century, the cities united under the combined name of
Fukuoka. The modern city is busy and bustling, with an
international flavour and plenty of innovative architectural
development.

The Tenjin underground shopping arcade brings the
wares of the world to Fukuoka, while a sandbank in the bay has been
turned into the largest entertainment district in western Japan,
with more than 2,000 eating and drinking establishments congregated
under the neon lights.

The Naka River promenade and riverfront park make for
pleasant strolls, while top class theatres, theme parks, and art
establishments abound. There are some sightseeing attractions in
the city itself, and the surrounding area in Kyushu Island has
plenty to offer within easy reach of the city.

Osaka

Japan's third largest city, the industrial metropolis of Osaka
lies just 26 miles (42km) south of Kyoto. Osaka is an ancient city,
powerful in the days of the feudal lords and samurai. Now the city
is a commercial hub, focused on making money and having a good
time: it has a reputation in Japan as one of the best places to eat
and drink.

It is worthwhile visiting the city just to see the magnificent
Osaka Castle. Osaka's castle dates back to the 16th century, built
by the powerful lord Hideyoshi Toyotomi. It was rebuilt following
World War II, renovated in 1997, and is today a national
treasure.

The city has a number of other attractions, including museums
dedicated to science, wood-block printing, peace, and even ramen.
There are also a number of beautiful temples, and the famous
Bunraku Puppet Theatre. Other attractions in Osaka include an
impressive aquarium and Universal Studios Japan, a theme park
focusing on the American movie industry.

Osaka offers many of the same hardcore shopping opportunities
that Japan's other major metropolises do, with the most famous
shopping district, Shinsaibashi, offering a mixture of department
stores, fashionable boutiques, and Western stores. Nipponbashi is
the best place to go for electronics.

Osaka has a distinct cuisine, putting its unique stamp on
everything from sushi to
(street food). After dinner, head out for some
fun in one of the karaoke bars. The liveliest nightlife is found in
Dotombori.

Kobe

Located between the sea and the Rokko mountain range, Kobe is not only one of Japan’s largest cities, but one of its most attractive. The capital of the Hyogo Prefecture, it has been an important port city since it was first opened to foreign trade in the 19th Century. A relatively small city, visitors can explore most areas by foot from the main train station or harbour.

Kochi

Kochi is a beautiful city located in southern Japan. The city is known for its stunning natural scenery, its friendly people, and its delicious food. Kochi is a perfect place to relax and enjoy the sights and sounds of Japan. Kochi is also a great place to shop for souvenirs and gifts. There are many shops and markets located throughout the city, so you can find something for everyone on your list. Kochi is a popular tourist destination, so there are plenty of hotels and resorts to choose from. Whether you want to stay in a traditional Japanese inn or a modern hotel, you can find the perfect accommodations for your needs.

Shimizu

Shimizu is a city located in the Shizuoka Prefecture, in the central region of Japan’s main island of Honshu. The city has a long and rich history, dating back to the 8th century when it was first mentioned in historical records. Shimizu thrived as a key port city during the Edo period (1603-1868), serving as an important stopping point for trade between Edo (now Tokyo) and Kyoto.

Today, Shimizu is a modern and vibrant city, with a population of over 700,000 people. The city is known for its beautiful natural scenery, with Mt. Fuji visible from many parts of the city on clear days. Shimizu is also home to a number of large companies and industries, including Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and Honda Motor Company.

The city of Shimizu is a great place to experience traditional Japanese culture while also enjoy all the conveniences and amenities of a modern city. There are a number of temples and shrines to visit, as well as traditional gardens and parks. For those interested in shopping and nightlife, Shimizu has plenty to offer, with a wide variety of shops and restaurants, as well as bars and clubs.

Yokohama

Just 20 minutes south of central Tokyo, Japan’s second most populated city, Yokohama, is one of the country’s busiest international ports. Offering a distinct cosmopolitan flavour interspersed with western-style buildings, Chinese temples and cuisine from around the world, it is a popular destination with tourists.