14-Day Japan, Hong Kong,
Vietnam & Taiwan

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.

Miyako Islands

The Miyako Islands are a stunning archipelago located in the southern part of Japan's Okinawa Prefecture. Comprising of several small islands, including Miyakojima, Ikema, and Tarama, this picturesque destination is known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and vibrant coral reefs. The islands offer a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor activities that make it a perfect destination for travelers seeking a tropical getaway.

One of the main highlights of the Miyako Islands is its breathtaking beaches. With powdery white sand and warm, inviting waters, these beaches are idyllic spots for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling. Some of the most popular beaches include Maehama Beach, Yonahamaehama Beach, and Sunayama Beach. These beaches are surrounded by lush vegetation and offer mesmerizing views of the ocean. Visitors can also explore the nearby coral reefs and encounter a rich diversity of marine life, making it a haven for snorkelers and scuba divers.

For those interested in exploring the local culture, the Miyako Islands offer a glimpse into traditional Okinawan life. The islands are home to several Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples, where visitors can learn about the spiritual beliefs and practices of the local community. The most significant shrine on the islands is the Miyako Jingū, which is dedicated to the island's deity and hosts an annual festival in October. The festival features traditional music, dance performances, and rituals, providing visitors with an immersive cultural experience.

Nature enthusiasts will find plenty to explore on the Miyako Islands. The islands are blessed with lush flora and fauna, including unique species of birds, butterflies, and plants. The Miyako Botanical Garden is a sanctuary for nature lovers, showcasing a wide variety of tropical plants and flowers from around the world. Additionally, the islands are home to unique geological formations, such as the picturesque Irabu Bridge and the Higashi-Hennazaki Cape, which offers stunning panoramic views of the ocean and nearby islands.

For adventure seekers, the Miyako Islands offer various outdoor activities. Kayaking, paddleboarding, and jet skiing are popular water sports that allow visitors to explore the coastline and hidden coves at their own pace. The islands are also known for their strong winds, making them a haven for windsurfing and kiteboarding enthusiasts. Hiking and cycling are great ways to explore the islands' natural beauty, with designated trails offering scenic views of the coastline and the lush interior.

When it comes to dining, the Miyako Islands are known for their fresh and delicious seafood. Visitors can savor local specialties such as Ishigaki beef, yaeyama soba noodles, and saltwater fish cooked in traditional Okinawan styles. The islands also have a vibrant nightlife scene, with bars and clubs offering a lively atmosphere where visitors can unwind and enjoy live music performances.

Getting to the Miyako Islands is relatively easy, with regular flights from major Japanese cities to Miyako Airport. Once on the islands, transportation options include rental cars, bicycles, and local buses, making it convenient to explore the various attractions.

In conclusion, the Miyako Islands offer a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor activities. With its pristine beaches, vibrant marine life, and unique cultural experiences, it is a destination that caters to the interests of all travelers. Whether you seek relaxation on the beach, adventure in the water, or cultural exploration, the Miyako Islands are sure to leave you with cherished memories of an unforgettable tropical escape.

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.

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.

Da Nang

Located on the south central coast of Vietnam, at the mouth of
the Han River, Da Nang is a modern, evolving port city, with the
highest urbanisation ratio of any centrally-governed city in the
country. Central Vietnam's commercial and educational heartland, Da
Nang is also an important tourist destination, attracting throngs
of local and international visitors every year.

Popular tourist attractions in and around Da Nang include the
Museum of Cham Sculpture; the Montgomerie Links golf course,
roundly considered the best in Vietnam; the Marble Mountains, a
cluster of five marble and limestone hills, famous for their caves,
tunnels, carvings and sculptures; and the My Son ruins, an
unmissable UNESCO World Heritage Site, consisting of Hindu temples
first built in the 4th century.

Da Nang is a popular stop-over point for travellers looking to
access the even more bewitching, close-lying areas of Hoi An and
the imperial city of Hue. The city also features a few slightly
more resort-style areas, such as Non Nuoc Beach, a white-sand beach
renowned for both its spectacular beauty and for its history as a
'R&R' destination for American troops during the Vietnam War,
and the Ba Na Hills, a mountain resort with a 3 mile-long (5km)
cable car system.

Da Nang, a booming metropolis with a thriving culinary scene and
plenty of options when it comes to nightlife, is easily accessible
by train, bus, plane or boat. The city is definitely worth a stop
to get a more varied view of Vietnam. Go between February and May,
when it'll be dry, and daytime temperatures will be bearable.

Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City, better known by its former name of Saigon, is
an industrious and dense metropolis, the largest city in Vietnam
and the business capital of the country. With a population of
roughly nine million, it is crowded and noisy, yet also exciting, a
historic city that encompasses the essence of the nation.

Located on the Saigon River on the edge of the Mekong Delta,
Saigon became the capital of the Republic of South Vietnam and was
the American headquarters during the Vietnam War. Two years later
the Communist north took control of the country, the city's name
was changed to Ho Chi Minh City, and recession and poverty
ensued.

Today, Ho Chi Minh City has a cosmopolitan atmosphere and,
having actively welcomed capitalism, its citizens are clearly
business-minded. Although relatively modern, it has still managed
to hold onto its historical character, and fine restaurants, chic
hotels and bars line the sidewalks. The buzzing of motorbikes and
scooters merges with the calls of street vendors and the urgent
business of stall owners, selling a range of delectable street food
and exotic delicacies. The sight of a family of four balanced
precariously on a scooter, a squealing pig strapped onto the back
of a bicycle, bowed heads topped by pointed lampshade-style hats
and orange-clothed monks are just some of the vibrant images the
city has to offer.

Although overshadowed by modern and Asiatic influences, a little
of Ho Chi Minh City's French colonial charm still remains, evident
in the graceful architecture, wide boulevards, and a sidewalk cafe
society. It is not for the attractions that travellers visit Ho Chi
Minh City however, but for the vibrancy of its street life, and its
proximity to the Mekong Delta.

Singapore

Beguiling Singapore is a modern city-state embracing economic
progress against the backdrop of age-old tradition. Many business
people and holidaymakers travel to Singapore on their way to the
Far East, or as a stop-off between Australia and Europe, and are
eager to see and experience this legendary hi-tech Asian city,
which combines traditional enclaves with the towering steel and
cement of a cosmopolitan international power-house. The customs
that underpin community life emerge out of a cultural mix that
includes predominantly Chinese, Indian and Malay ethnic groups.

Singapore is an island off the southern tip of Malaysia, linked
to it by a causeway. It evolved from a sleepy fishing village in
the early 1900s to become one of Asia's economic tigers. Sir Thomas
Stamford Raffles landed on Singapore's northern bank in 1819,
quickly identifying a strategic trading location. Singapore's rural
landscape was transformed by British colonial rule, Japanese
occupation, Communist insurrection and finally, independence. Since
becoming a republic in 1965 the island has experienced increased
prosperity and exponential economic growth. Shimmering skyscrapers
tower above the slick financial districts and elegant colonial
buildings preserve a lingering old-world charm.

Singapore's full calendar of events showcases a spectrum of
cultural celebrations and shopping activities. The early summer
months bustle in anticipation of the Singapore Sale - a time when
tourists can cash in on the competitive prices of electronic
equipment, jewellery and other merchandise. The business activity
thrives amid the celebration of Chinese, Hindu and Muslim festivals
that punctuate the year with their colourful representations. These
include the Chinese New Year, Ramadan, Hari Raya Puasa, Vesak Day,
the Dragon Boat Festival, Festival of the Hungry Ghosts and
Thaipusam.

The core of downtown Singapore is formed by the Colonial
District, embellished by cathedrals and cricket lawns. The notable
sites of the area include the Empress Place Building and the
luxurious Raffles Hotel. Although most of old Singapore has been
demolished to make way for the modern city, many major landmarks
within the Colonial District have been preserved. The surrounding
ethnic enclaves of Little India, Chinatown and the Arab Quarter
also provide glimpses into the traditions that have sustained their
respective communities through the centuries.