Wonderful Asia

Animal Kingdom

2009-05-12T04:43:00.000-07:00

Jurong Bird Park

If you are looking for a quick break from the hustle and bustle of the Singapore urban lifestyle, visit the Jurong BirdPark where 9,000 colourful birds of 600 species will amaze you with their variety, shapes and sizes.

The newly revamped BirdPark offers a range of new and exciting exhibits and facilities which are truly breathtaking and worth your while. Make sure you pay a visit to the 2007 ASEANTA winner for Best ASEAN New Tourist Attraction - The African Wetlands. This African-themed exhibit with African huts and a body of water, houses endangered birds like the Shoebill, the African Crowned Crane, the Saddle-Billed Stork and more.

The newly revamped Birds n Buddies Show now includes bird-inspired characters as buddies to the largest collection of live birds in a show performance. Created by a Las Vegas Show producer, the costumes with intricate sequins and decorative beads plus the interactive birds and audience acts have made the show more endearing to its loyal flock of fans.

Whether you hop into a special tour, go behind-the scenes, feed Lories in the Lory Loft, catch the Birds of Prey Show, learn to Be-a-Falconer or get into the Panorail to catch a bird’s eye view of the whole park, there’s no doubt that the BirdPark is an enchanting paradise of birds and colours.

From the Penguin Parade in a re-created Antarctic setting to the Southeast Asian Birds Aviary featuring a walk-in aviary with simulated tropical thunderstorms, the birds enjoy an environment designed to be as natural to their original habitat as possible. The Waterfall Aviary is a firm favourite, home to 1,500 free-flying African birds. So is the Riverine, a new simulated natural freshwater river habitat featuring over 20 species of ducks, fish and turtles.

At two bird shows, you can watch flamingos, macaws, hornbills, cocktatoos and even hawks in action! Or start the day in style – by having breakfast with a star-studded bird cast!

To view the park from all angles, start by boarding the modern panorail system, followed by a walking tour.

Night Safari

As the sun sets, a different world comes to life. At the Night Safari, you can look a rhinoceros in the eye, hear the howls of a pack of striped hyenas or watch giraffes glide serenely across the plain in the still of the night.

This premier night zoo houses over 900 animals of 135 exotic species in eight zones re-created to simulate geographic zones like the Southeast Asian rainforest, African savanna, Nepalese river valley, South American pampas and Burmese jungle.

Strike out on your own along the walking trail or relax in a tram ride - whichever you choose, Night Safari is a wild adventure not to be missed.

Butterfly Park & Insect Kingdom

Like an emergent butterfly, the delicate beauty of the Butterfly Park & Insect Kingdom promises to be breath-taking! Be dazzled by the riot of colours and thousands of tiny fluttering wings flutter as you stroll through the natural environment of these fragile specimens.

Come up close and personal with the kings of the Insect World ? Rhino Beetles, Giant Spiders and scorpions ? in a 70m-long cave, the first in the world. As you venture further into the dark, be guided only by glowing fireflies.

For a more hands-on experience, learn how to handle giant scorpions, beetles and other insects in the stage shows. Or try picking up a stick insect at the Stick Insect Safari ? if you can spot them, that is!

Singapore Zoo

Tired of having the usual breakfast? Then feast with an orang utan, the Oriental small-clawed otter, or even the reticulated python! These are just some of the many unusual escapades that await you at the acclaimed Singapore Zoo. Come up close and personal with the over 3,200 mammals, birds and reptiles and fishes at this 28-hectare “open” zoo.

Take a walk in the Fragile Forest and experience first-hand the rich lushness of a tropical rainforest with its thriving wildlife. You can also trek down the Great Rift Valley of Ethiopia to meet over 50 hamadryas baboons, the black-backed jackal and the banded mongoose.

Here at the Singapore Zoo, you will come face to face with many special “babies” - threatened species successfully orn and bred in the zoo, such as the douc langur, white rhinoceros, proboscis monkey, manatee and of course, orang utan.

Rainforest Kidzworld

Children can look forward to splashes of exhilarating activities at Rainforest Kidzworld this November. This new and special attraction within the park offers an educational, fun and engaging time with family-focused activities.

Waves of fun await children at the water play area, themed like a wet animal wonderland! For a wild ride, both adults and children can hop onto the animal-themed carousel. Pony rides are also available for children. The ride takes you on a leisurely trot around the periphery of Rainforest Kidzworld, with picturesque views of the Upper Seletar Reservoir.

Boat Ride along Upper Seletar Reservoir

We are upping the fun-factor by introducing a boat ride along the scenic Upper Seletar Reservoir, to further enhance visitors' experience at the Zoo. A total of four boats will be plying the reservoir, aptly named after the Zoo's animal stars: Pedro, Omar, Komali and Ah Meng.

Bask in the majesty of nature as you enjoy the leisurely boat ride, and learn more about water and wildlife conservation from our knowledgeable guides. Discover the history behind Singapore's reservoirs, and the importance of watere as a vital lifeline to all. Listen carefully and keep your eyes peeled for the call of wild animals and birds, which continue to flourish all around us.

Underwater World

Situated on Sentosa, Underwater World Singapore is a dream haven that showcases the awe-inspiring beauty of a whole different world beneath the seas. Visitors can expect a fun-filled experience through interactive activities and interesting exhibits, before they arrive at the highlight: A spectacular 83 metre-long tunnel that houses majestic rays, fearsome sharks and great shoals of other fishes.

After Underwater World Singapore, visitors can move on to Dolphin Lagoon where they get to watch charming pink dolphins demonstrate their natural abilities such as spy-hopping, tail-walking and vocalization.

Fish Reflexology (located next to Underwater World Singapore)

Underwater World Singapore also offers a unique activity that enable visitors to unwind and have fun at the same time. At Fish Reflexology, participants get to enjoy a unique pedicure session done by spa fish, followed by a good massage by a qualified foot reflexologist.

Many marine species, such as the blacktip and whitetip sharks, eagle rays and big-belly seahorses, breed and thrive in the Underwater World. Underwater World plays an integral role in conservation efforts such as rescuing the endangered turtle species and spearheading a coral relocation project in the Southern Islands.

Swim with the Dolphins (at Dolphin Lagoon)

Swim with the Dolphins is an educational cum enjoyable hands-on program with our lovely pink dolphins which will offer you a rare opportunity to learn more about our intelligent friends. Delight yourself through a close interaction with our charming pink dolphins at the Dolphin Lagoon. These pink mammals are known as Indo-Pacific Humpbacked dolphins.

Grab this rare opportunity to learn more about these intelligent pink mammals on various aspects such as husbandry behavior and their various characteristics. Under the guidance of our trainers, you can learn how to give simple hand cues and watch the dolphins perform their natural abilities such as wave their fins, balance a basketball, and even whistle! You will also get a chance to feed the dolphin too!

World’s First Oceanarium RFID System

As part of Underwater World Singapore’s (UWS) continuing efforts to introduce more exciting and interactive oceanarium experiences to our visitors, UWS has catalyzed the integration of aquatic science and technology to introduce the Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) System making us the world’s first oceanarium to do so.

All the seven species of fishes in our Living Fossils tank are embedded with RFID tags. The RFID tag implanted in each fish will enable it to be sensed by antennas that are fitted on the front of the exhibition tank. When the fish swims within detectable range, the RFID tag sends a signal to the antenna, which then relays a signal to a touch screen computer. Visitors will also be able to navigate through all the detailed information about the fish including its name, diet and characteristics by clicking on the appropriate icons on the computer screen.

Uniquely Singapore

2009-05-12T04:34:00.000-07:00

If there is one word that best captures Singapore, it is “unique”. A dynamic city rich in contrast and colour, you'll find a harmonious blend of culture, cuisine, arts and architecture here. Brimming with unbridled energy, this little dynamo in Southeast Asia embodies the finest of both East and West.

A single day's trail will take you from the past to the future, from exotic ethnic enclave to efficient business centre, from serene gardens to sleek skyscrapers.

Start your day with a hearty breakfast amidst lush vegetation with Singapore's very own orang utans. Then take a step back in time as you enter a traditional Chinese temple, Muslim mosque, Hindu temple and Christian church - all in the same neighbourhood.

Return to the present by strolling down Orchard Road, picking up the latest fashion trends and entertaining local catch phrases along the way.

A simple meal is made memorable when drifting along the Singapore River on a traditional bumboat. Step off the boat and get catapulted 60 metres into the air on a reverse bungy ride! More laughter and fun is in store if you board an amphibious "duck" to explore the city, in the company of its wacky guides.

After a day of excitement, retreat into the peaceful sanctuary of our acclaimed spa, just a stone's throw away from the best business facilities in the world.

When recharged, give yourself at least an hour to enjoy a customary Chinese tea ceremony before you step into a world-class venue to catch a Broadway musical.

With its friendly and welcoming people, state-of-the-art infrastructure and something new happening everyday, Singapore is a holiday like no other.

History and Origins

The Merlion was first designed as an emblem for the Singapore Tourist Promotion Board (STPB) in 1964 – the lion head with a fish body resting on a crest of waves quickly became Singapore’s icon to the rest of the world.

Designed by Mr Fraser Brunner, a member of the souvenir committee and a curator of the Van Kleef Aquarium, the lion head represents the lion spotted by Prince Sang Nila Utama when he re-discovered Singapura in 11 AD, as recorded in the "Malay Annals". The fish tail of the Merlion symbolises the ancient city of Temasek meaning “sea” in Javanese) by which Singapore was known before the Prince named it “Singapura” (meaning “lion” (singa) “city” (pura) in Sanskrit), and represents Singapore’s humble beginnings as a fishing village.

Measuring 8.6 metres high and weighing 70 tonnes, the Merlion statue was built from cement fondue by the late Singapore craftsman, Mr Lim Nang Seng. A second and smaller Merlion statue, measuring two metres high and weighing three tones, was also built by Mr Lim. The body was made of cement fondue, the skin from porcelain plates and eyes from small red teacups.

The Merlion and the Cub were originally located at the mouth of the Singapore River, across from the Elizabeth Walk, just 120 metres from their present location. Also called the Merlion Park, the area soon became a popular tourist attraction and took its place among the famous landmarks of great cities of the world. Mr Lee Kuan Yew, the then Prime Minister of Singapore, officiated the installation ceremony of the Merlion on 15 September 1972. A bronze plaque commemorated the auspicious occasion with the inscription, "The Merlion has been erected as a symbol to welcome all visitors to Singapore".

Today, the Merlion attracts more than one million visitors a year who make the trip to the Merlion Park to photograph this world famous icon at her new home, at the adjacent to One Fullerton.

Location

The Merlion's current home is adjacent to One Fullerton, on a newly constructed 2,500 square metre park. One Fullerton offers a choice of waterfront restaurants, lounges and dance clubs.

The area also comprises a promontory with terraced seating, and a viewing deck to hold up to 300 people as well as a boat landing point that allows visitors to disembark from river taxis. The viewing deck provides photographers with unrivalled vistas of the Merlion against the city skyline and the scenic Marina Bay, including landmarks such as The Fullerton Singapore and Esplanade - Theatres on the Bay.

The Merlion Cub is located 28 metres behind the Merlion. Pump systems for the Merlion and the Merlion cub have been installed to enable both to spout water throughout the day and night.

Paradise Archipelago in East of Indonesia

2009-04-11T11:05:00.000-07:00

The archipelago around Sulawesi and Borneo has been described as an ecological 'hot spot'. East of Indonesia Archipelago have much terrain varied, from walls and fringing reef to caverns, big Green Turtles (Chelonia mydas), whitetip, leopard and nurse sharks, schooling barracudas, napoleon wrasses, cuttle fish, spanish mackerel, jacks and batfishes, and ornamentalreef fishes hang out in record densities and diversity.

If the sea has a heart, it lies somewhere in the dynamic mosaic that is the Indonesian archipelago. In this biological hot zone, there are more coral and fish species than anywhere else on Earth. The numbers are staggering: for instance, Indonesia has 83 species of angelfish and butterflyfish, while the whole of the Caribbean supports just seven of each.

This diversity is celebrated in The Sulu-Sulawesi Seas, a new photo-book by German photo-journalist Jürgen Freund. Part of a conservation initiative by the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), the book focuses on the area around Sulawesi, Borneo and the southern Philippines - the epicentre of the hot zone. This is a world where schools of jacks group into seething tornadoes over reef drop-offs, where tiny porcelain crabs seek refuge among the swaying tentacles of a host anemone. Stray from the reefs into a mangrove swamp and you are just as likely to run into a saltwater crocodile, the mightiest of the reptiles.

This region, referred to often as the 'coral triangle' or the 'East-Indies Triangle', encompasses three nations and an area of complex oceanography. All the islands have narrow continental shelves and many are separated from each other by relatively deep waters. Surface currents flow permanently eastwards along the north coast of Sulawesi and southwards along the west coast. To the south of the island there is a strong east-flowing current during the northeast monsoon, which is reversed during the southeast monsoon.

Conditions are ideal for reef development and there are fringing reefs along the shores of most of the smaller islands, and some continuous stretches running for hundreds of miles along the coastline. It doesn't take an expert to see that this is a special place: if you were to do a dive on a Sulawesi reef, then jet off to anywhere in, say, the tropical western Atlantic, the difference would be immediately noticeable. For years, photographers have said that the reefs of the Caribbean are like English gardens compared with the marine jungles of Southeast Asia.

For divers, it's down to the ease of finding certain exotic creatures. The highly cryptic leaf scorpionfish, for instance, can be found all over the Indo-Pacific, but in most places no one bothers to look over areas of exposed coral (their preferred habitat) for suspiciously leafy objects. When you're in the coral triangle, it's always worthwhile looking around for semi-disguised creatures. And if you're observant enough to find one leaf scorpionfish, there are usually others nearby.

Local dive operators are only too aware of the region's super-abundance of marine species. Log on to any website promoting diving in Borneo or Sulawesi and you will find phrases along the lines of 'located in the middle of the ocean's centre for biodiversity' or 'slap-bang in the middle of the ocean's Eden'. It's a strong selling-point, but can be misleading in terms of understanding the true nature of this magical place.

So, why are there so many different corals, fish and invertebrates in this region? Is it, as the websites suggest, some sort of underwater Eden? This has certainly been a popular theory, that the seas from Java to New Guinea represent an underwater 'cradle of evolution' from which all life in the shallow tropical seas originated. According to this approach, places such as Sulawesi have an abundance of species because it has been an evolutionary production line since since an early point in Earth's history. It's an attractive notion and has an appealing symmetry, not least because of parallel theories about the emergence of humans from Africa.

Unfortunately, the 'marine Eden' theory has a wealth of evidence stacked against it. If it is to be believed, all the coral in the world must have originated in and around Southeast Asia - but fossil research on Acropora corals shows that they originated around North Africa, Spain or even other parts of Europe, but not Indonesia. According to Dr Brian Rosen, a scientific associate in zoology at London's Natural History Museum, simple fossil data clearly shows that Southeast Asia was not a long-term cradle of coral development. 'If you look back 40 million years ago, Europe and the Caribbean were the major centres for coral reef diversity, and research in progress increasingly suggests that many reef organisms originated there,' Rosen explained.

So, between about five and seven million years ago, Europe's reef-building coral died out and the Caribbean's managed to stagger along, but by then Southeast Asia had become the hot zone. Rosen maintains that this was not due to any single cataclysmic event, but a long-term series of events which had made it the most attractive option for marine life.

'When environmental conditions change, organisms will go extinct if they cannot cope with the new conditions, stay where they are if they can cope, or if the change is not too drastic or too quick, they will gradually migrate into other regions where conditions are more suitable for them.' Put simply, if life has time to get out, it will do so while the getting out's good.

Most of the conditions and habitats that are found in present-day Indonesia also occur in the Caribbean - so why are there such differences in biodiversity? Dr Rosen - whose study of the issue amounts to a life's work - points out that if the environments are so similar today, then there must be long-term historical issues behind the development of the East Indies triangle.

So, let's look to history. It has been estimated that biodiversity may have accumulated in this region at the same time that extinctions were occurring in other parts of the world during the Pleistocene period (the time in our Earth's history from approximately 1.8 million years ago until about 10,000 year ago). The region is a labyrinth of volcanoes and deep basins that survived the Ice Ages, possibly providing a refuge for numerous species.

At the same time, the massive fluctuations in sea level may have isolated pockets of reef diversity, allowing evolution to follow different paths. When the species were reunited as sea levels rose, they had changed in many subtle - and not so subtle - ways, further adding to their diversity. The tortuous geography of the area has helped to create what Dr Rosen describes as a 'dynamic mosaic' which acts with variations in sea level to create a sort of 'diversity pump'.

Today, the triangle straddles an area in which two great oceans - the Pacific and the Indian - meet. That species from the two oceans come together and mix here is beyond contention. It is simply another of many factors that promoted diversity in the coral triangle. Ask any diver who has seen the currents ripping through Nusa Tenggara, the islands south of Sulawesi which include the famous Komodo Marine Park. It is here that the Pacific flows into the Indian Ocean, a vast movement of water impeded only by a few volcanic islands, around which some of the fastest currents on Earth occur.

Diverse as they may be, the reefs of the coral triangle face an uncertain future. Some 82 per cent of them are estimated to be threatened by human activities in the recent Reefs at Risk report. Human populations are over-using the resources in many areas, while rapid industrialisation and the continuing destruction of the forests on land are causing massive amounts of sediment and pollution to accumulate on reefs. The other major factor is global warming, widely believed to be underlying cause of coral bleaching.

Marine biologist Dr Alexander Mustard is another prominent diver and underwater photographer who has fallen in love with the coral triangle. He maintains that the preservation of Indonesia's marine environment is crucial not just for the region, but for the entire world. 'Anyone who has dived extensively in Indonesia will have seen the impact of dynamite fishing,' he said. 'If you're underwater and an explosion takes place within a few miles, you will literally feel the impact, despite the fact that dynamite fishing has been illegal in Indonesia since 1985.

'Even with the increasing population, there is more than enough protein in the sea to provide for human needs. But instead of harvesting it in a sustainable manner, they are destroying the very environment that supports the life. It's like being an orange farmer and, instead of picking oranges, you chop down the whole tree.'

Yet Jürgen Freund, whose pictures illustrate this article, feels there is still hope for the coral triangle. 'Some fishing communities now actively protect their fishing grounds and coral reefs, and others have mangrove reforestation programs,' he said. 'Once given a chance, the sea can replenish itself. In the Sulawesi Sea northwest of Manado, fishermen can pull a ton of tuna from the sea in two hours, using only simple bamboo fishing rods and small hooks. They could easily take more, but they have a simple philosophy - why take so much when we can keep some fish in the sea for tomorrow?'

Indonesia, The Exotic Country

2009-04-11T11:02:00.000-07:00

Indonesia is a large country and contains rich in cultural diversity with hundreds of different ethnic groups. Each group has a unique tradition, culture and art, making Indonesia the country to attract foreign tourists, scientists, theater, and art. Each tribe also has a tradition and the local language, besides Bahasa Indonesia, official language. Although in one island, like Sumatra, Java, Sulawesi, Maluku, Papua and others, local language is often different from village to village. Diversity such as language, is very interesting for those interested in linguistics. Linguists interested in historical linguistics, morphology, sociolinguistics, language shift and language attrition will find Indonesia a land that provides them with much material to work with.

Indonesian has the largest Muslim population in any country in the world but also a country of diverse religion. Including Hindu, Buddhist, Catholic and Protestant. In addition there Kaharingan, the Dayak people in Kalimantan has been obtained from law officials. This religious and traditional beliefs, together they provide syncretism interesting for students who study religion.

Indonesia is a developing country with rich natural resources and human resources and economic potential, especially the market that promise, so for the sake of the country, international economists, plant and animal experts, and development workers.

The Indonesian archipelago of more than 17,000 islands, inhabited by two species of flora and fauna of different origin. Especially in the west belongs to the Indo-Malayan realm, while to the east Pacific and Australian realms. Although the country covers only 1.3 percent of Earth's land, but here is home to some of the most spectacular wildlife and extraordinary - both plants and animals. Indonesia also has a high biodiversity: ten percent of the world's flowering plant species, 12 percent of the world's mammal species, 16 percent of all reptile and amphibian species, 17 percent of all 2008 bird species and more than 25 percent of fish species.

Recent research shows that 40 million Indonesians are directly dependent on biodiversity. Of these, 12 million people of native (indigenous) people who live in and around the forest. Environment in the forest for centuries, the community has developed a policy of sustainable exploitation of resources - they acknowledge that the continued existence depends on the availability of food to hunt and gather. Help preserve the culture and their lifestyle is as important as related to the conservation of biodiversity in Indonesia.

Indonesia has experienced remarkable political changes in the last few years, moving toward democracy and greater freedom for the community, including the mass media, so it can become a nation that can become a role model to be learned by other countries in the world.

Dream Holidays in Indonesia

2009-04-11T10:59:00.000-07:00

Indonesia is one of the most interesting and intriguing places to visit; many people seek to spend Dream Holidays in Indonesia mostly due to the diverse variety of cultures and the breathtakingly beautiful scenery, which is known to make people return year after year.

Indonesia is the largest archipelago state of the world consisting of five main islands: Sulawesi, the infamous Java and Sumatra, Irian Jaya and Kalimantan; it also includes a small group of archipelagos.

If you go to Indonesia you will come across with an opulent cultural heritage; once there you will have a huge dilemma what to visit, but there are definitely some places which are a must see. The Bali Island is one of them : is it one of the most known islands in the world because of its natural beauty, the endless sandy beaches and the tropical ambience. It’s a place where surfers, nature lovers and savvy scuba divers gather every year, while travelers who want to relax and unwind from the bustling environment of the western cities.

In Borneo, lays the infamous province of Kalimantan, where the largest rainforest in the world is located. Wildlife and dense, lush greenery are celebrated there, attracting thousands of tourists every year, especially those who want to admire a natural phenomenon in person. It is one of the wealthiest resources of Indonesia that is why the authorities do their best to preserve it. Krakatau volcano is also one of the most known attractions in Indonesia due to its catastrophic eruption back in 1883, which was one of the most catastrophic natural events ever recorded in human history. Tourists today can take a daily boat trip to the volcano.

Indonesia is a very rich country in terms of culture, featuring a very unique and picturesque setting and gives endless chances of fun and recreation to its numerous visitors on their dream holidays. The slogan that Indonesians use when referring to their country is ‘Unity in Diversity’ which is actually quite true; Indonesia is a rich hub of civilizations and traditions, which adds to its unique and gripping atmosphere. Indonesia is a country that offers so many attractions of all kinds to its visitors and travelers that it’s quite hard not to fall in love with the place. Everyone agrees that Indonesia is a place one must visit at least once in his life.

The Origin of Toba Lake

2009-04-11T10:55:00.000-07:00

World famous is the crater Toba Lake in the Batak highlands; approximately five hours drive from Medan. Toba Lake is the largest lake in South East Asia and also one of the most spectacular, surrounded by tall mountains and with the large island of Samosir in the middle. If we descend from the mountain we see the lake glittering in all its beauty. The Dutch writer Rudy Kousbroek even called Toba Lake, 'the most beautiful place on earth'. Most visitors stay on the peninsula of Tuk Tuk on Samosir, named after the linguist Herman Neubronner van der Tuuk. In general people stay several days on Samosir to discover the island, to visit traditional Batak villages, to swim in the lake and go to the hot springs in Pangururan.

The centerpiece of North Sumatra, Lake Toba's bracing climate and magnificent panoramas clear the mind and soothe the soul. For decades a magnet from regional and foreign visitors alike, Toba has developed into a full-featured highland resort while retaining the rustic charm and relaxed ambiance that define Toba's attraction. Formed by a stupendous prehistoric volcanic explosion, the 100 km long lake is the largest in Southeast Asia and one of the deepest and the highest in the world. The drama of that cataclysmic birth persist in 500 meter cliffs dropping into the blue-green waters, surrounded by steep, pine covered sloped, the climate is fresh and pleasant, with just enough rain to support the lush vegetation.

Toba Lake is a 100kms x 30kms volcanic lake in North Sumatra, Indonesia. Toba Lake has become one of the main tourist attractions for a long time in North Sumatra apart from Bukit Lawang and Nias, visited by both domestic and foreign tourist.

It is estimated that Toba Lake was formed during a volcanic eruption about 73.000-75.000 years ago and which was the most recent super volcano eruption. Bill Rose and Craig Chesner from Michigan Technological University estimated that volcanic materials that were spewed out the mountain totaling 2800km3, with 800km3 ignimbrites rock and 2000km3 volcanic ash that is estimated was blown (wind) to the west for 2 weeks. This incident caused mass death (destruction) and to several species also causes extinction. According to some DNA proof, this eruption also shrinks the humankind population to around thousands back then.

After this eruption, a caldera was formed that was filled by water afterwards and now known as Toba Lake. The pressure from the dormant magma, which has not yet erupted, caused Samosir Island to emerge. The region that now known as Samosir Island originally was a peninsula that attached to the Sumatran mainland. In this peninsula the Netherlands built the water canal 10 m width.

For the first time visitors, going through Medan-Parapat route seeing a lake as big as that made Samosir appear like an amazing grand island. However, the island perspective will certainly faded with the increase in Toba plateau visitor, Nias and the other places in the south, through Medan-Berastagi route. Samosir occupied a central geographical position in the Toba plateau region. With the declaration of the Toba Samosir Regency (the inhabitants 302.000 lives, the area with wide of 3.440 km including the lake) it finally ascend from only a shadow into a Regency. Moreover, the width of Samosir Island exceed Singapore (647 km), in fact Toba Lake almost twice bigger than Singapore. The Samosir image in tourism books as the backpackers location must be changed because this historic place must restore the greatness of its past.

Most Famous Peach Flower Field in Korea

2009-04-05T22:27:00.000-07:00

Peach flowers at Yeongdeok

Yeondeok-gun Gyeongsangbuk-do is famous for its large crabs in late autumn and also for its wonderful peach field. Its climate and soil are ideal for peach cultivation. The reason why Yeondeok has become so famous for its peach field is that the area was re-cultivated after it was flooded by Osipcheon dike when the powerful typhoon Sara stormed over Korea in 1959. The farmers in this area had to study how to cultivate their devastated crop fields as they had become covered with sand and pebbles after the fearsome storm. Then the farmers began to plant peach trees in their fields one after another, as peach trees grow well even in desolate areas. The number and produce of peach trees in Yeondeok have increased to the largest amount both in number of trees and quantity of fruits in Korea. Peach fields are centered in Jipum-myeon and Yeongdeok-eup in Yeondeok-gun. Peaches of Yeongdeok are harvested in August with lots of sweet juice with sufficient phosphoric acid.

The Osipcheon River in Yeondeok-gun is composed of 50 smaller streams along its course. Osipchoen originates from the slope of Hwangjangjae, which marks the border line with Cheongsong-gun and flows through Sinancheon, Soseocheon, Daeseocheon, Gwandongcheon and other streams on its way to the East Sea. The Osipcheon River meanders through peach fields, with many peach trees standing alongside its path.

Wonderful Harmony of Peach Tree Blossoms and Pear Blossoms

The national road No. 34 from Andong runs alongside the Osipchoen River toward Yeondeok, passing the Hwanjangjae Pass. This course is pleasant to drive along in springtime in Korea with beautiful flowers blooming on both sides. However, another romantic driving way can be found nearby. The blossom of the peach tree is called Dohwa (peach blossom) or Boksaggot. Peach blossoms sport a light pink or white color on the petals and present splendid natural beauty.

The beautiful Yeondeok peach blossom road runs about 10 kilometers from Jipum-myeon to Yeongdeok-eup and the highlight is found around Samhwa-ri, Ocheon-solbat (pine tree field) at Ocheon-ri and Gumi-ri Yeongdeok-eup. In short, the scenery is fantastic. There are also pear pastures in between the peach fields, and their attractive blossoms welcome you in wonderful harmony with the peach blossoms. That's why this place is referred to as a location where you can simultaneously view the natural blossoms of two different types of trees.

The peach blossoms at Yeongdeok bloom around mid-April and last about ten days. However, if it rains or gets cold, the peach trees sprout their pretty blossoms a little later, and the blossoms easily fall together in clumps if stirred by a cool breeze or the spring rain. A biannual festival of peach tree blossoms held by Yeondeok-gun further inspires the admiration of these natural attractions. This year is not a festival year, so you can have the wonderful opportunity to enjoy the wonderful natural scenic beauty without being jostled by crowds.

Attraction of Sasa Marine Park and Okgye Valley

After enjoying the bliss of peach blossoms, there is more natural scenic beauty at Samsa Marine Park and Okgye Valley. Samsa Marine Park located at Samsa-ri (three thoughts village), Gangu-myeon to the south of Yeongdeok-eup shows off its scenic beauty on the eastern part of village. To the north is Ganggu Port, which is well-known for Yeongdeok crabs, and to the east spreads the vast East Sea with its great wonders and natural marine resources. This port is loved by the early risers for its graceful sunrises. It also has nice restaurants, lodging facilities and other facilities for tourists and travelers from all over the world.

Drive along the national road No. 34 from Jipum toward Yoeondeok and turn to the right at Sinyang-ri. Then cross the Sinyanggyo Bridge and drive along the provincial road No. 69 about 14 kilometers and you will reach Okgye Valley. Okgye Valley is very attractive with its wonderful harmony of mountains and streams. The steep walls of huge rocks and the clear pure streams in the valley present a wonderful vista of natural beauty. This valley is ideal for outings and picnics in spring and autumn and presents a nice resort in summer time.

The descendants of Son Eulseong, who used to live in Gyeongju, wandered about the Korean peninsula and were impressed with the natural beauty of this place and settled here thereafter. Chimsujeong Pavilion, which was built by Son in the first year (1609) of King Gwanghaegun during the Yi dynasty, adds to the natural attraction of this valley.

Natural Beauty in the Bosom of Baekdudaegan

2009-04-05T22:21:00.000-07:00

Jungbong Valley

Visiting Jungbongol Valley after a long while, I found the valley quite different from the old days. The old farmhouse where I stayed overnight drinking herb liqueur with an old farmer was deserted and seemed to have collapsed, with lots of spider webs hindering the doors and windows. I was so sorry to see the sad scene that I wandered about the place a while and started toward Teokgol Valley, crossing the Teokgolgyo Bridge to console my mind. This valley is located a short distance away from the main Jungbonggol Valley but it holds more memories for me.

However, at Teokgol Valley I could not find any trace of the old farmhouse where I was once invited to a generous breakfast with a large bowl of natural mountainside honey a few years ago. Instead, there I could only see a new modern style house and a strange small temple was newly built. Even though this valley is not my own home village, I felt as if I had lost my old home village, and I retreated from the valley in a sad and heavy mood.

I returned to Teokgolgyo Bridge and started to climb toward Jungbonggol Valley. Tall trees covered the sky, casting their dark shadows on the trail in the mountain valley. Whenever I visit this trail, I find the way in this forest is frequently deserted and very suitable for walking in contemplation. Close to a nearby mountain stream are spread out sand fields, and the valley provides a nice place for summer vacationers.

To my delight, I found the farmhouses standing the same as before at the Sonae Village where the streams from the Ansonaegol Valley unite. I could hear some people talking in the house. Villagers here live mostly by gathering mountain herbs and wild vegetables and raising honey bees on the mountain. From May and June, when most flowers bloom, until October, some outside residents would come to this village to gather wild honey and herbs. The people in the farmhouse at Sonae Village may have been those outside residents who had come to this village recently.

Uncontaminated Mountain Valley where Others Live

The vehicle road ends in front of the Jungbong Branch Elementary School of the Galjeon Elementary School, which is about 5.8 kilometers off the National Road No.35 connecting Imgye and Taebaek. This branch school was opened in 1966 and brought up 70 graduates until it was closed in February, 1991. Its empty playground used to be very suitable for camping but this school property has been used as a temple since several years ago.

I hear a commotion in the valley in front of the branch school. There are two children and two adults in the valley who seem to be a family. They are all smiles and laughter, having successfully caught a fish in the stream. This valley has been very popular for catching fish in the clear stream. If you put a pot or Kocher in the stream with soybean paste and steamed rice inside the pot, rather big fish soon gather quite easily in the pot.

The streams in Jungbonggol Valley are always rich with clear water all throughout the four seasons of the year. It's because the waters of the streams join together here after coming down from many minor streams in several valleys such as Jeolgol, Hwinjeokgol, Danggol, Haedanggol, Jageundanggol and Ansonaegol--all from the extensive slopes of the Baekdudaegan, the largest mountain chain in Korea.

As those valleys have thick forests and deep streams, their waters never run dry. Sometimes these valleys are called 12-danggol as there used to a pavilion where Simmani (natural mountain ginseng collector) prayed to the mountain god, wishing for their successful search of natural ginseng in the mountain before they departed for their work in the forest. In mid-summer vacationers come from the Samcheok and Taebaek area, but in other seasons these valleys are rather deserted and lonely.

Jungbongol Valley is not splendid but serene. The little cascades that swirl around the attractive rocks along the stream and the crystal clear ponds present modest natural charms of the deep mountain valleys. Residents here take great pride in the serenity of their valley, saying, "These valleys are so clear and uncontaminated that even otters live here!" As there are many broadleaf trees, these valleys sparkle with colorful autumn leaves every fall, but it seems to me that few people have discovered the wonderful beauty of these valleys.

Remote Village Jeolgol almost Completely Isolated from the Outside World

If you cross a valley from the Jungbong Branch Elementary School, a forest road can be found. In most cases, walking along a forest road is usually tedious but the case is quite different here. You become refreshed occasionally when you encounter rushing and sprinkling cascades in the rocky valley, and cool crystal clear ponds here and there. After crossing through seven or eight valleys--when you pass the spot where the streams from Jageundanggol Valley are united--the valley curves to your right toward the northeastern direction. Then you will enter Hwinjeokgol Valley. Your front view of the valley opens widely and you can enjoy the vista of Cheongoksan Mountain far in the distance. As you walk along the mountain trail decorated with wildflowers, the chattering sound of streams in the mountain valley disappear in the sweet whisper of winds in the forest.

Passing the spot where the valley streams from Hwinjeokgol and Jeolgol unite, the forest road rises somewhat steeply toward the northern ridge. This forest road continues for a long while along the slopes and ridges, and disappears when you come down to Jeolgol Village. It takes about 2 and a half hours from the Jungbong Branch Elementary School. Jeolgol Village is a remote village that is almost completely isolated from the outside world. The villagers who used to live here by cultivating crops in patches they made by burning sections of forest left this village in the 1970s. Thereafter, two farmers named Mr. Cheong and Mr. Kim came to this village in 1991 and 1998, respectively, and have settled down in this remote mountain village.

Standing in the middle of a rather wide plateau on the upper part of Jeolgeol Village, which is surrounded by the ridges of the Jungbongsan Mountain-Gojeokdae Peak-Cheongoksan Mountain-Mangjibong Peak, I indulge in the wonderful sounds and beauty of nature. Suddenly, a strong desire to cast off my current mundane chains and live together with nature in this remote mountain village rises up from my heart.

Beautiful Park on the Sea where Angels Played

2009-04-05T22:16:00.000-07:00

Seonyudo Island

The bow-shaped beach covered with white sand looks like Myeongsasipri, a well-known 4 kilometer-long beach with its famous white sands. It is the Seonyudo Island beach, which is famous for its clear sea and shallow water. The two giant rocks rising high on the other side of the beach are very impressive. According to legend, a loyal subject who was punished by being banished to this remote island climbed up these rocks and looked toward the northern capital Hanyang, earnestly wishing his king well.

Therefore these huge rocks are called Mangjubong (peak of looking toward one's master).After a shower in summer, the 150 meter-high falls Mangjupokpo shows off its wonderful cascade on a huge rocky cliff.

If you climb the summit of Mangjubong, which is 152 meters above sea level, you will be overwhelmed with an indescribable emotion to see the sublime sunset scene over the horizon, along with many little jewel-like islets dotting the vast sea pigmented yellowish red with the setting sun on the western sky. It is a very impressive sunset scene that is much better than seen on the beach far down below the summit. However, you have to calm down your excitement as you must be very careful when you walk down along the rocky trail in the dim dusk light.

The Seonyudo Island (island of angels' resort) has a legend that angels used to play on this island in the old days, and it is the central island of the Gogunsangundo (group of islands with old mountains) comprising islands such as Yamido, Sinsido, Seonyudo, Jangjado, Daejangdo, Munyeodo, Gotrido, Hoenggyeongdo, Bangchukdo, Myeongdo, Maldo and Biando. These islands used to be far away from the mainland before the Saemangeum land reclamation project was completed. Nowadays these islands are not so far from the mainland any longer.

Enjoyable Bicycle Riding Course through Seonyudo, Jangjado and Munyeodo

To the west of Seonyudo Island is Jangjado Island, and to the south of Seonyudo Island is Munyeodo Island. Between Seonyudo Island and Jangjado Island is the Jangjagyo Bridge, and between Seonyudo Island and Munyeodo Island is the Seonyugyo Bridge. As these three islands are connected with these two bridges, they seem to be a single island. These two bridges are 268 meters long and are not wide enough to drive a car but are a nice course for bicycle riding. Riding a bicycle to see every corner of these islands is very enjoyable. There is a bicycle renting shop in Seonyudo Island and the tandem bicycle is very popular among couples.

Jangjado Island used to function as the central sea port of the Gogunsangundo Islands. Many fishing boats used to harbor around the peaceful sea in front of Jangjado Island, and at night the sea was full of light from those fishing boats. But that spectacular night scene that was once called Jangjaeohwa (fishing lights of Jangjado) has disappeared nowadays.

The 113 meter-long Jangja Suspension Bridge connects Jangjado Island and Daejangdo Island. Therefore people do not differentiate the two islands nowadays and call them by one name, Jangjado Island. On Daejangdo Island there is 'Jangja Halmaebawi,' whose legend was broadcast once in the 'Home Village of Legend' radio program.

Sad legend of Jangja Halmaebawi Rock

During the Goryeo Kingdom a scholar couple lived on Daejangdo Island. The husband scholar left for the mainland to take a government exam for a high-ranking position, and his wife waited for her husband, praying for his success on the exam on top of Jangjabong, the highest peak in the island. For many years her husband did not return. However, the wife watched the horizon every day, carrying her baby on her back and climbing to the top of Jangjabong Peak. Then one day she saw a ship with her husband on board sailing by Hoenggyeongdo Island to the North of Daejangdo Island. What an amazing surprise to her! She saw her husband, and a young attractive woman sitting affectionately by her husband. Her long-awaited and cherished husband was coming back with a new young wife, without having passed the exam. The old wife's happiness to see her husband turned into shocked sadness, and she turned back toward her home in sorrowful tears. At that moment the baby on her back rejected her, turning back by twisting forcibly, and the two turned into rocks on the spot. That may be the reason why the ‘Jangja Halmaebawi (grandma rock)’ looks like a woman carrying a baby on her back. Afterward, when the husband heard of this tragic event, he also turned into a rock that is called 'Halbaebawi (grandpa rock)' on Hoenggyeongdo Island. These legendary rocks can be seen by the sea even today.

The name of Munyeodo (sorceress island) originated from the shape of the mountain that stands in the middle of the island with a shape of dancing female shaman. However, ironically, most inhabitants of this island are Christians. In comparison with other islands at the Gogunsangundo, this island has a wide area of rice paddies that is more than 30,000 pyeong in the area (one pyeong is 3.3 square meters). In addition to these wide rice paddies, this island has hundreds of thousands of pyeong of Bagirak (Tapes philippinarum) shellfish fields and salt fields that enable the residents to enjoy a rich and abundant lifestyle.

Peaceful Island Suitable for Family Resort

2009-04-05T22:09:00.000-07:00

Geumildo Island

If you reach Maryanghang Port at Gangin, nearby Gamakseom Island attracts your attention. It's an uninhabited islet where more than 60 kinds of evergreen trees, including magnolia, thrive densely. As this forest was nominated Natural Monument No.172, tourists cannot actually step on to this islet, but just viewing this beautiful islet covered with evergreen forest at distance while waiting for the passenger boat at the port is also enjoyable. It's really wonderful how all those evergreen trees have filled up the little islet so densely and attractively. Even though people did not plant any trees at some places, wild plants spread their seeds and grew naturally, becoming the masters of their land.

While resting on a seaside rock enjoying the nearby scenery of Gamakseom Island, you can see the passenger boat bound for Geumildo Island preparing for sailing. It's a car ferry but I went on board by myself with my car left behind at the parking lot of Maryanghang Port. The car ferry sails among many islands, cruising continuously and carefully not to damage the many sea farms around the islands. It took about one hour and twenty minutes to reach Iljeonghang Port at Geumildo Island.

In the past, people went to Geumildo Island in that way. However, this old maritime traffic situation has changed quite a lot nowadays. This is because the two islands of Maryangdo and Gogeumdo and the two islands of Gogeumdo and Joyakdo were connected by a bridge. By crossing the Gogeumdaegyo Bridge, people can go to Gogeumdo Island, and then by crossing the Yaksandaegyo Bridge people can reach the Dangmokhang Port at Yaksan-myeon Joyakdo Island, where people can sail to Geumildo Island by passenger boat within half an hour.

About 4,000 residents live on Geumildo Island (golden day island), which is 18.9 square kilometers in area. In contrast to many other islands in the South Sea that were occasionally attacked by Japanese pirates, this island was not invaded by any pirates at all. Thus the islanders could live mostly in peace and this island became called Pyeongildo Island (peaceful day island). But recently most people call this island Geumildo Island according to the official name of Geumil-eup.

Scenic Beauty along the Seaside

By local bus it takes about 25 minutes from Iljeonghang Port at Geumildo Island to reach Geumilmyeongsa Beach. This beach has a very wide and attractive sand field that is rarely found on local islands in Korea. The length of beach shaped like a bow is more than 2 kilometers. The "cute little islands such as Sorangdo, Udo and Sodarangdo in front sea of this beach seem to be pounded by the rough waves that surge toward the beach from the limitless vast ocean. The waves along this beach are rather rough in comparison with other beaches in the South Sea.

Shellfishes like large clams and hard-shelled mussels can be found here and there along the beach as they are swept onto the seaside by the raging waves. If you collect various shells on this remote beach by digging in the sand with your hands, hours will pass by before you realize it. During the busy summer vacation period quite a lot of vacationers come to this remote beach but, as its sand fields are so extensive, the beach is never crowded.

The evergreen pine forest at Wolsong-ri near Geumilmyeongsa Beach is composed of more than 2,000 pine trees that are two to three hundreds years old. These huge old pine trees standing in a one-kilometer-long row show off a nice scenic vista. Walking along the trail in this pine forest, you can enjoy the romantic sounds of the waves. However sultry a day it may be in summer, if you sit down or lie down on a mat under the shade of the big pine trees, you can cool off in the summer heat.

The pebble beach at Yonghangri is one of the most secluded places on Geumildo Island and is rather deserted even during the busy summer vacation season. Though the length of the pebble beach is short, the little pebbles and the blue ocean present an attractive scene with a peaceful atmosphere. You may feel like picking up some nice looking pebbles but you should refrain from doing so. The residents may keep a close eye on you because the attractive little pebbles should be preserved here as part of the original natural scenery.

An island well-known for its Citron and Sea Tangle

Yonggul Cavern, another attraction of Geumildo Island, is somewhat difficult to approach. It's because guide maps for tourists published so far contained some mistakes about this cavern. As it is rather complicated to approach this cavern along the seaside from Geumil-eup, it's better to drive along the southern road at the Gudong-ri Crossroads. After driving 850 meters from the crossroads, turn to your left and drive about 1.4 kilometers, and then walk a little while. You will find yourself in front of Yonggul Cavern.

Waves come and go in the mysterious cavern by the sea. Outside the cavern stand steep rocky cliffs showing a wonderful scenic vista. There is a legend that says a dragon that used to live here was on its way to heaven and hit the rocky cliffs with its tail, and the cavern was made in the cliff. Tourists enjoy gathering the shellfish that the waves have rolled up on the seaside. The islanders dry the sea tangle on the pebble beach at the entrance to Yonggul Cavern. Geumildo Island is well-known for its sea tangle.

Sea tangle is a nice diet food as it has low calories and lots of dietary fiber that stimulate bowel movements and prevent constipation and obesity. However, to handle the sea tangle is a very difficult job and there is a joke that says sea farmers would prefer never to handle the sea tangle again. Some people say this humor caused the name of sea tangle to be "Dasima," which in Korean implies "Dasineun-an-hama (I would not do it again)".

Geumildo Island is well-known not only for its sea tangle but also for its citron, due to its mild and warm climate. In late autumn people can smell the sweet fragrance of citron all over the island. There is no one on this island who cannot help but be deeply impressed with the sweet fragrance of citron hovering in the cool and refreshing late autumn air.

God's Palace on the Sea

2009-04-05T22:05:00.000-07:00

Baekdo Island at Yeosu Jeonnam

Baekdo is an island in Dadohae National Park and is located at 28 kilometers away from Geomundo Island. Baekdo is considered a counterpart of Hongdo Island and was nominated as the 7th famous place in the South Sea. Baekdo is an uninhabited island featuring sharp cliffs of gorgeous huge rocks that look like a grand palace which no human architect on the earth could ever build.

Baekdo is divided into Sangbaekdo and Habaekdo. There's a rumor that says the name of the island is called Baekdo because it is derived from the Chinese character Baek, which means one hundred in number. Supposedly, the island is composed of 99 islets, just one short of a hundred. But in reality, the rumor is not true. No one can say definitely how many islets form Baekdo, because the number of islets changes according to the ebb and flow of the tide. In encyclopedias, the island is composed of 39 islets, but some people say the number is 24, while others insist the number is 67 when including large and small rocks that appear at low tide. Whatever the right number may be, their total area is as small as 0.62 square kilometers.

During the Japanese colonial days, Japanese people changed the name of Sangbaekdo and Habaekdo, referring to Habaekdo as Sangbaekdo, as it is nearer to Japan where their emperor resides. And this mistake lasted for a long time even after the colonial days. But this mistake was corrected in 1990s due to the continuous request of the residents of nearby Geomundo Island, and many other people including the author of this article.

Mysterious Castle Floating on the Sea

As soon as you see Baekdo, you will be thrilled, as if you were being engulfed into a mysterious castle. The islets seem to have lots of legends, as typical of most famous places. In one legend, a prince of heaven was expelled from heaven to these islets. He fell in love with a princess of the sea and lived a romantic and happy life on the sea. As time passed, the king in heaven missed his son and sent his messengers to bring his son back from the sea. The messengers did not come back to heaven, but chose to remain at sea. The king sent more and more messengers to bring back his son, with the number of messengers eventually reaching a hundred. At last the king became very angry and made all his messengers and his son freeze as rocks, which became the Baekdo islets.

Each islet has its own legend, too. According to the many legends: the king of heaven sent a message to the Naru islet, two heavenly messenger brothers hid themselves at the Brother rock as they were scolded by the king, crops were stored at the Nojeok islet, Tanggeunyeo looks like hat used by a messenger from heaven, an eagle turned into the Eagle islet while it was trying to catch the prince's pet bird. All these legends are concerned with the islets of Sangbaekdo. A lighthouse run by solar energy is installed on the peak of Sangbaekdo, which is 155 meters above sea level. On both sides of the slope of the peak are steps to the lighthouse. It takes about 20 minutes on foot from the sea to the lighthouse, but these step roads have been closed to protect the natural environment.

In Habaekdo, there is Seobang rock, which looks like a phallic symbol. According to the legends, the prince of heaven was punished by turning into this rock, and the princess of the sea was punished by becoming Gaksi rock, which looks like the genitalia of a woman. And there is Jewel rock, which was once the jewel box of the two lovers. Palace rock is the place where the prince used to live with his servants. Dokiyeo is the place where one of the heavenly messengers came from the heaven with an ax. Sinseon rock is the place where heavenly angels used to roam.

Natural Jewel Store with an Ancient Charm of Mystery

Rocks in Baekdo look like human beings or animals. They look different whenever viewed from different angles. People cannot help but be amazed to see the mysterious shapes of the rocks with their fabulous legends that were created by the clever residents of nearby Geomundo Island.

Residents of Geomundo believe in the legend that they will become rich if they pray at Jewel rock. What's more mysterious is the fact that no one has ever experienced a shipwreck at Baekdo. Before any storm comes, a mysterious loud sound comes from the Baekdo as an early warning to fishermen, and once they find shelter at Geomundo the storm would begin to roar without causing harm to any of the fishermen.

More than 350 kinds of subtropical plants such as Neofinetia calcata, Orchis graminifolia, Juniperous Chinensis, day lily and Fatsia japonica thrive among the chasms of sharp cliffs. About 30 kinds of sea birds including the wren, Estern gray wagtail, cormorant, bush warbler, fairy pitt, wood pigeon, black-tailed gull, goldfinch, silvereye, titmouse, and Phylloscopus borealis live there. Baby birds learn how to fly from their parents near the cliffs along the seaside and their nests are placed in the many holes in the cliffs.

Baekdo is famous not only for its natural beauty but also because it is a paradise for animals and plants. All the tourists on tour boats love to view the island again and again on their way back from the wonderful islets. Uncontaminated natural attractions of the islets enchant the tourists for a long time.

The Great Hwangmae

2009-04-05T21:31:00.000-07:00

The Second Best Mountain in Hapcheon

Mt. Hwangmae (1,108 meters above sea level) traverses Gahoe-myeon and Daebyeong-myeon Hapcheon-gun Gyeongnam and Chahwang-myeon Sancheong-gun. The first impression of the mountain is that it looks very rough and grandiose. The grotesque cliffs and huge rocks over the Youngam Temple looks oppressive, like a part of Mt. Seorak. However if you take the trail on the mountain you will find the way to be smooth and comfortable. The southeastern slope of the mountain is so flat that it was once used as a pasture.

Following after Mt. Gaya, which features the famous Haein Temple, Mt. Hwangmae is called the "second best mountain in Hapcheon." As the rocks on the peak of the mountain look similar to Halmi flowers (Halmi means "grandmother" in Korean, and its other foreign names are pasqueflower, windflower and Pulsatilla koreana), the name of the mountain used to be 'Mt. Halmi' but was changed to Mt. Hwangmae later. There is a legend that its name was originated from Magohalmi. As Hwangmae Mountain stands conspicuously high above the other mountains nearby, it has many legends about its origin.

On the southeastern slope of Mt. Hwangmae is Youngamsa Temple. Even though the temple is not large in its scale, it is a very attractive temple surrounded by great rocky walls. At the ancient site of Youngamsa Temple are several cultural treasures of national treasure class that reveal that the ancient temple was rather famous in the past. As the temple has no record about its founding, nobody knows when the temple was built, but the remains of old relics suggest the temple was built during the Unified Shilla Kingdom.

The ancient Youngamsa Temple was nominated as historical site No. 131. It houses Geumdang Site, Seogeumdang Site, Jungmun Site and Three Storied Pagoda (Treasure No. 480), Twin Lion Stone Candle Holder (treasure No. 353) and Stone Guibu (Treasure No. 489). Various tile pieces made during the Unified Shilla Kingdom and Goryeo Kingdom and the Standing Golden Statue of Buddha were found there when an excavation was made in 1984.

Red Waves of Royal Azalea Blossoms

After the common azaleas (Jindallae) disappear in early spring, royal azaleas (Cheoljjuk) begin to bloom. The royal azaleas are similar to common azaleas but their petals are thicker and they bloom in greater numbers, covering their boughs before their leaves come out. As royal azaleas have contain poison, the flowers are not edible. Therefore common azaleas, which are edible, are called true flowers while inedible royal azaleas are called dog flowers.

Royal azaleas can be seen on any mountain all over the country but only a few mountains have clusters of royal azaleas covering a wide area. Mt. Hwangmae is one of the few mountains that are famous for sweeping expanses of royal azalea blossoms. Royal azaleas found in the middle part of the Korean peninsula feature a light pink color, but those flowers in the southern part have a strong red color. The royal azaleas on Mt. Hwangmae have a deep red color.

A wide field of royal azalea clusters stretches from the southern part of Dunnaeri pasture in Hwangmaepeyongjeon to the Youngamsa Temple. As you can command a view of the field very easily from the mountain trail, the red waves of royal azalea blossoms look very impressive. You can reach the peak of the mountain after walking about 40 minutes from the pasture, and you can enjoy a mountainous vista of Gyeongnam province that includes Mt. Jiri and many other high mountains. Hapcheon Lake on the northern part of the mountain makes the scenery very attractive with its cool atmosphere.

Wonderful Vista of Hwanggye Fall and Enjoyable Hapcheon Lake Drive

Not far from Mt. Hwangmae can be found in the secret charms of Hwanggye Fall in Hwanggye-ri Yongju-myeon. Hwanggye Fall features a two-stage waterfall, with the stream originating from Mt. Heobyeong (682 meters above sea level). The first fall starts about 20 meters high on a steep cliff and the cascade gushes cool water abundantly into the valley. It then forms another fall 10 meters high on its way down into the valley, forming several smaller cascades along the way. Hwanggye Fall has its own special attraction.

Your spring tour will become much enjoyable if you drive along Hapcheon Lake after looking around Mt. Hwangmae and Hwanggye Fall. Hapcheon Lake is a wide artificial lake that was formed by Haocheon Dam, which was constructed in December 1988. The dam is 96 meters high and 472 meters long.

Forty kilometers long, the Hapcheon Lake drive is not just a simple path around the lake but is a steep course that eventually leads into the mountains, allowing drivers to enjoy the various surrounding attractions.

Ttittimi Village

2009-03-31T01:14:00.000-07:00

Sansuyu Village where Movie ‘Weonangsori’ was set

The documentary film "Weonangsori (cowbell sound)" is getting a great popular response here in Korea. Though the movie is an independent film, more than 2.5 million people have seen the movie, breaking the record of viewer numbers for an independent film, and the number is expected to be well over 3 million people soon. The Korean movie society is wondering how many people will see the movie in the future. Let’s take a tour to the remote mountainside village Ttittimi, where a young cow was filmed while pulling heavy tires to train for the popular movie "Weonangsori."

The name of the village Ttittimi is rather peculiar as well as familiar. How did this village acquire its name? A cliff was called Deum in Korean in the old days. The village is surrounded by many mountains. Therefore neighboring villagers called this village Dwitdeum (back cliff). These words were transformed into Ttittimi after they had been changed to Dwitteum-dittimi. The official name of this village on a map is Dudong, but everyone in the neighboring villages and taxi drivers visiting this village always call the village Ttittimi.

An eminent patriotic scholar, Dugok Hong Ujeong of the Yi Dynasty, came here to settle down at this remote village at the end of Byeongjahoran (Chinese invasion between 1636-1637). Insisting that the Joseon Kingdom must not surrender to the invading Chinese Cheong Kingdom, he could not endure the disgraceful surrender made by King Injo at Samjeondo. He gave up his position in the palace and came here seeking a hermit life in the deep mountainside. He determined to keep his conscience and fidelity as a righteous scholar instead of living in a comfortable place as a high ranking subject of a disgraced kingdom. After he settled down at this remote village, his posterity increased continuously generation after generation, forming a clan of the Namyang Hong family in the village. Even nowadays, one out of two houses belongs to the family of Namyang Hong.

Scholar Hong Ujeong planted Sansuyu at Byeongjahoran period

When the scholar Dugok Hong Ujeong came down to this village, the mountainside around the village was covered with the wild plants and bushes of Darae (Actinidia Arguta). Hong Ujeong planted in the village a few trees of Sansuyu (Cornus officinalis) that he had brought from the capital city of the Joseon Kingdom, Hanyang (currently Seoul), and nowadays the blossoms of Sansuyu fill every corner of the village whenever spring comes around. Most of the Sansuyu trees here are well over 100 years old and some of them are nearly 400 years old. The most recently planted Sansuyu trees are commonly 60 to 70 years old. In particular, the Sansuyu fruits produced at this village have rich medicinal ingredients such as Moromicid and Ogaram that are very effective as nutritional stimulants.

The red fruits of Sansuyu maturing in autumn have been as important as rice for the villagers here. As this village is located in the deep mountainside where few rice paddies or crop patches can be found, Sansuyu fruits functioned like deposit notebooks that supported tuition fees and wedding expenses for the children of the villagers. People say Sansuyu trees planted at Uiseong district originated from this village. However, as cheap Sansuyu fruits are imported from China these days, Sansuyu producers in the village are worrying about their poor market situation

Viewed from the surrounding mountains, the village looks like a yellow basket hidden in the bottom of the mountain valleys. Covered with the thick yellow blossoms of Sansuyu, houses in the villages are almost invisible from the nearby mountains. Sansuyu blossoms blooming over the earth and stone walls of four remaining old style houses look very friendly. Sansuyu blossoms begin to bloom from mid March at this village and last until early to mid April.

Valuable cultural properties at nearby Cheonseongsa Temple

Though the Sansuyu tree fields at Ttittimi Village (where only 13 houses out of all 20 houses are currently inhabited) are as attractive as any other well-known Sansuyu villages in Korea, such as Sandong Village at Gurye-gun Jeollanam-do, Hwajeon-ri Uiseong-gun Gyeongsangbuk-do, Gaegun Village at Yangpyeong-gun and Baeksa Village at Icheon-si Gyeonggi-do, they have been known only to a few people so far. However, it is expected that quite a lot of tourists will visit the village from this year, as Ttittimi Village has been known to the public as the place where the popular movie "Weonangsori" was set.

At Geumbong-ri Bongseong-myeon near Ttittimi Village is a Taegojong order temple, Cheonseongsa, on Munsusan Mountain. Though the temple is not very old or large, it has several precious cultural properties. Seokjoyeoraeipsang (standing stone statue of Buddha) in Muryangsujeon Hall is Tangible Cultural Property No. 133 of Gyeongsangbuk-do. It is 159 centimeters high with a 37 centimeter high head and 53 centimeter wide shoulders and is assumed to have been formed around the end of the Silla Kingdom or in the early Goryeo Kingdom. The Buddha statue was found at an ancient temple site in Bongseong-ri Bongseong-myeon but it was moved to this temple by the master monk Lee Hwaseong in 1967.

Cheonseongsa Samcheungseoktap (three storied stone pagoda at Cheonseongsa Temple), which was nominated as Tangible Cultural Property No. 134 of Gyeongsangbuk-do, is one of the twin pagodas found at the ancient temple site in Seonghwanggok Valley in Bongseong-ri. The other pagoda was moved to Bongseong Elementary School. These twin pagodas bear the characteristic charms of the Goryeo Kingdom period and are each 2.7 meters high.

Winter Spa Trip

2009-03-31T00:59:00.000-07:00

It is the height of winter in Korea these days, with temperatures dipping below zero on many days. As I was researching a timely topic for Discovering Korea, I thought this time of year would be perfect for a nice, warm spa trip. There’s no need to go to neighboring Japan, which well known for its spas. And that’s good news, because these days, the won-yen exchange rate is particularly unfavorable for Koreans. There are many facilities in Korea that can make for an affordable and close trip for couples, friends and families. Today, I introduce four of the best known spas nationwide, recommended by the Korea Tourism Organization.

Spas are a great place to relax our fatigued bodies in warm water while our faces enjoy the fresh cold breeze outside. It’s hard to think of any other experience as refreshing to the body and mind. Did you know that ‘spa’ is also the name of a famous town in Belgium, which is of course know for its spas? The spa experience is more than simple bathing. It also implies a healing process.

If you happen to love sushi, this first place may suit you: the Seorak Waterpia spa in Sokcho, Gangwon province. The spa is adjacent to the stunning Mount Seorak, so you can imagine the majestic natural scenery. Waterpia is known for its well-equipped modern facilities, including an aqua dome. Also, port city Sokcho is a great place to eat fresh raw fish and other seafood to your heart’s content! Start out early in the day and head to Daepo port where you can find a string of fishing boasts coming in during the early dawn hours after a night catch. Fish purchased here are the freshest you can find.

The second destination is Icheon, Gyeonggi province, which is much closer to Seoul. It’s said that Joseon kings Sejong and Sejo often came here to bathe—giving the spas here a great reputation for quality. Of course the facilities have greatly improved since the old days. Spas in Icheon take after German style spas. After a good bath, we need good food. So what is Icheon famous for? Many things, but one is certainly rice. Koreans have a delicate palate for rice, since it is our staple dish. Icheon rice immediately stands out in its taste and quality. Icheon is also famous for ceramics. Visitors can also try their hand at making pottery while they’re in town.

The third spa of choice is the Jukrim spa in Wanju, North Jeolla province. This area boasts the best alkaline sulfur spring in the country. The sulfur content makes the water slippery, which you can feel immediately as you go into the water. Sulfur springs help to extract heavy metal residue from your body and heal skin diseases. Some scholars rank Jukrim spa higher in quality than the famed Beppu spa in Japan. Wanju is famous for its tofu dishes, and it’s also close to the Jeonju folk village.

The last choice is the Uljin spa in Uljin, North Gyeongsang province. Apart from the spa, Uljin is a great winter travel destination and a site for the New Year sunrise. Uljin is the top spa resort of the east coast. Only 58 thousand people live in Uljin, but it has two spa resorts that are both hundreds of years old. One of them, the Deokgu spa, is the one and only natural spring spa in Korea. Spring water shoots up five meters high year-round at an average temperature of 41.3 degrees Celsius. And the other Baekam spa is one of the few sulfur springs in the country. It’s also very historic, as it was first discovered in the ancient Silla dynasty era.

So, to recap the four spas, they are Seorak Waterpia in Sokcho, the Icheon spa, the Jukrim spa in Wanju and Uljin spa in Uljin county, North Gyeongsang province.

And many more spa resorts have sprung up across the country, so Koreans have plenty of options for a winter spa trip.

Commercial Break in Busan

2009-03-26T11:25:00.000-07:00

Shopping and Commerce

Commercial areas are dispersed through the city near busy intersections and adjacent to university campuses, but the two largest central business districts in Busan are Seomyeon and Gwangbok-dong/Nampo-dong. There are also four substantial shopping areas of note: Seomyeon, Gwangbok-dong, Busan Dae Hakap in Jangjeon-dong, and Haeundae.

Seomyeon is the crossroads of Busan. The local subway station serves two lines and is one of the busiest in the city. The local head offices of Korean and international banks are located in Seomyeon. It is recognized as the ascendant shopping and entertainment district. Directly adjacent to Seomyeon is Bujeon Market, the largest traditional market in the city.

The Gwangbok-dong, Nampo-dong, and Jungang-dong areas form the old central business district. Some of the restaurants in this district are locally famous with family recipes passed down the generations. Jagalchi Market (near part of the very active port) is an area of narrow street stalls and is well known for its fish market. The Gukje Market is also located nearby. Jungang-dong is the home of many international law offices, the old Immigation Office, and the international ferry terminal serving Japanese routes. Lotte World II is currently under construction along the water between Jungang-dong.

Parks, Beaches, and Resorts

Geumjeongsan to the west is a popular weekend hiking spot for Busan residents. To the north, the neighborhoods around Pusan National University (also known as PNU, which is one of the most highly recognized national institutes of high education in Korea) have student theaters, cafes, bars and restaurants, as well as open-air cultural street performances on weekend nights. Nearby is Beomeosa, the city's main Korean Buddhist temple.

Dongnae area is a traditional as well as wealthy residential area. Dongnae Oncheon is a natural spa area with many baths, tourist hotels, restaurants, clubs and shopping areas. Many restaurants in the area are famous for their family recipes. Chungnyeolsa is a Confucian shrine for soldiers who died during the sixteenth century battle against the Japanese at Dongnae Fortress.

Busan is called the summer capital of Korea since it attracts tourists from all over the country to its six beaches. Luxury hotels and a carnival boardwalk line the beach at Haeundae. Gwangalli Beach is famous for its cafes, bars, and restaurants along the beach, and the Grand Gwangan Bridge. The area around Pukyong National University and Kyungsung University has many cafes, bars and restaurants attracting college students and youth.

Taejongdae, is a natural park with magnificent cliffs facing the open sea on the island of Yeongdo.

The area known as the "Foreigners' Shopping Street", but commonly referred to as "Texas Street" near part of the Port of Busan, has many businesses that cater to the local Russian population, as well as the crews of foreign ships. The area was originally the location of the local Chinatown and still contains a Chinese school. Because of the Chinese presence, the area was designated to serve as the commercial and entertainment needs of American soldiers, and businesses were set up there during the 1940s and 1950s to cater to them.

Artificial Intelligence

2009-03-19T09:55:00.000-07:00

South Korea is a world leader in the development and adoption of advanced robotics technology and has an ambitious plan to put a robot in every household by 2020. Several robot cities are about to be constructed in the country, with the first city being built in 2009 at a cost of 500 billion won, of which 50 billion is direct government investment. The new robot city will feature research and development centers for manufacturers and part suppliers, as well as exhibition halls and a stadium for robot competitions.

The government is also investing another $1.3 billion to build two new robot theme parks in Incheon and Masan by 2013, which will be developed as centres for the country's robot industry, featuring a number of attractions that allow visitors to interact with robots and test new products. The country's new Robotics Ethics Charter will establish ground rules and laws for human interaction with robots in the future, setting standards for robotics users and manufacturers, as well as guidelines on ethical standards to be programmed into robots to prevent human abuse of robots and vice versa.

Faced with a critically low birth rate and an aging population, the country is quickly turning to robots to replace disappearing workers and loss of military manpower. Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology developed the world's second walking humanoid robot, HUBO. In 2005, KAIST announced they had created the world's smartest robot, able to think and learn like a human. It is the first network based humanoid in the world taking advantage of South Korea's advanced communication network. In 2006, South Korean scientists from the Korea University of Science and Technology unveiled the world's second female android, Ever-1, capable of expressing human emotions.

Its successors are expected to walk, sing and dance, to be used in department stores and museums, as well as reading stories to children. Engineers from Samsung Techwin revealed in 2006 the Intelligent Surveillance and Guard Robot, a machine-gunned sentry robot able to detect and repel intruders along the heavily armed border with North Korea.

Shopping in Seoul

2009-03-19T09:52:00.000-07:00

Seoul is a heaven for shoppers with numerous mega-shopping centers. You can really shop till you drop. Seoul is famous for high quality goods coupled with excellent and reasonable prices.Only one caution: be prepared for large and massive crowds. Usually people including most tourists are polite, but there can be some pushing and shoving at times in and around the major shopping areas.

Namdaemun (The Great South Gate) Market

The downtown Namdaemun Market, the biggest traditional market in Korea (covers about 10 acres), offers everything from ginseng to kimchi to military uniforms. Among the popular items for tourists are clothes, shoes, fabrics, tableware, flowers, ginseng products, toys, and watches. It is a world-famous shopping paradise and an attraction that tourists should not miss. Most shops have their own factories and make the products themselves offering both wholesale and retail at an extremely low prices. Prices are generally 10% to 20% lower than prices at other markets. Hours vary by store, so it's advisable to plan out in advance according with a shopping list before you start the actual shopping. Wholesalers operate from midnight to 6:00 a.m., and retailers are open from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Although most retailers close their stores on the 1st and 3rd Sundays of each month, many street vendors operate stalls in the alleys. Near the main street to the north of the market there is also an extensive underground arcade. Visitors can get travel information and interpretation guide service in English and Japanese for free.

Yongsan Electronics Market

Yongsan Electronics Market was formed by a host of small electronic dealers and has since developed into the greatest electronic shopping town in the East. It covers a whopping 78,650 square meters in size. It has more than 7,000 shops in 24 shopping centers which includes Electronics Land, Najin, Seonin, Wonhyo and a computer wholesale center. Visitors to this shopping town can enjoy shopping for almost all kinds of the latest electronic products and components, including computers, games and lighting equipment. The prices are about 10 to 30% cheaper for Korean made products, while imported items can go as low as 50% lower than elsewhere. Also, it is possible to receive larger discounts at the beginning of the year, at the beginning of the school year or during holidays. Most major stores are open from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm.

Shinch'on

One of the most famous shopping streets in Seoul, Shinch'on is located within walking distance of 4 universities. The are restaurants, cafes, cinemas and night clubs filled with youths wearing the latest fashions. It was a wild place to be on eve of public holidays.

Insa-dong

If you're shopping for antiques, Insa-dong is the place. It's a narrow street lined with antique stores, art galleries and secondhand bookstores. Dubbed "Mary's Alley" by foreigner to Seoul, Insa-dong is the best place to purchase antiques, reproductions, calligraphy, paintings, and a wide variety of implements and articles from Korea's past. Traditional teahouses and art galleries are also concentrated in this area.

Itaewon

Itaewon is famous for bargain hunting. If you like to dig through piles of junk to find hidden treasures, this is the place to go. Here you can find branded goods which were rejected for export at very attractive prices. These items are not bad in quality, they just are of irregular or odd sizes.

Apkujong

Apkujong-South of the river (Kangnam) is a place of fashion. It`s the land of upscale Department Stores, funky cool boutiques and luxury branded shops. This is the happening place for the latest in fashion. If you have the money, they have the goods!

Techno Mart

Techno Mart, a large shopping center, is occupied by more than 2,000 electronic shops located from the 1st to 8th floor. You can purchase electronic products, computers, sound systems, communication equipment, CDs and much more. Prices here tend to be 10% to 20% lower than other places.

Offering a variety of goods from the antiques to the latest in fashion and pricing ranging from bargain prices to top end exclusive prices, Seoul is truly a heaven for shoppers.

Comfortable Accommodation at Hotels in Korea

2009-03-19T09:45:00.000-07:00

Korea, one of the oldest continuous civilizations, has a distinct cultural identity that cannot be absorbed by its larger neighboring countries. Music, crafts, ceramics and painting form a group of excellent traditional Korean arts. Musicians have a remarkable stamina of singing continuously for more than eight hours. Marvelously crafted items deserve appreciation. Korea is not only famous for its rich culture, but also for its natural beauty, which had attracted myriad of tourist and had made it a tourist destination.

The appreciated increase in the number of tourists had led to the establishment of hotels in Korea, ranging from luxury hotels to cheap Korea hotels. They offer comfortable accommodation with several facilities and amenities to satisfy their clients. They also serve their visitors with recreational facilities to add fun and excitement to their trip. Many of these hotels are situated in proximity to tourists’ destinations Seoul, the capital and largest city of South Korea covers the second largest metropolitan area. It includes various temples, parks, gardens and outdoor attractions that had made this place a tourist favorite spot. As far as their lodging is concerned, Seoul hotels have offered them comfortable accommodations with all the required facilities. Some favorite tourists’ spots around Seoul are :

Gyeongbokgung Palace - it is the jewel of Seoul’s five historic palaces. National museum, gardens, ponds, apartments and staterooms are some of the excellent architectural features of rectangular palace.

Namsangol Hanaok Village - it comes as a surprise amidst skyscrapers. Visitors can enjoy traditional tea, shops, crafts and hand made products in this peaceful village in the center of city.

Lotte world - it is the main theme park in Seoul that is filled with fun and thrill. The park has two sub divisions- indoor and outdoor. The inner section contains ‘Adventure land’ that contains streets representing different countries and their activities, entertainments, shops etc… The outdoor section contains Magic Island with castle that offer high altitudes rides, pleasant walking trial around a lake.

There are many attractions within the Korea that have attracted tourist from across the world. Some of them are :

Bulguk-sa Temple - it is one of the great Buddhist temple that was recognized as an international cultural property.

Samjeon Grotto Temple - these temple areas have been declared as cultural property of the country. It is also Buddhist temple having a spectacular sight perched on top of a hill.

Jiri-san National Park - the part of three provinces of Korea is composed of streams, peaks, waterfalls and rivers. These national parks exhibit country’s inner beauty and charm.

There are many hotels in Korea that are located around these main tourists attraction for the convenience and enjoyment of travelers.

Hotels in South Korea – in Proximity to Tourist's Attractions

2009-03-19T09:43:00.000-07:00

South Korea, known as the ‘land of the morning calm’ occupies the southern half of the Korean peninsula. It is a major economic power and one of the wealthiest countries in Asia. It is 13th largest country in the world and fourth largest country in Asia. Not only this, but it has 6th armed force and 10th largest defense budget in the world. It is one of the leading centers of industries in the world; let it be science and technology, infrastructure or information technology. It is neither lagging behind in steel production, Shipbuilding, automobile production nor in refining industry. The storehouse of so many industries and features is also a choice of tourists.

The most famous historical tourist attractions in South Korea include Seoul, Gyeongju and Buyeo. There are many landmarks, peaks, caves, islands and beaches that have attracted tourist from the world across and for their accommodation, hotels in South Korea has brought up remarkable developments with several facilities and amenities. The most popular cultural hub in South Korea is its capital city, Seoul, which is one among the top 20 world class cities. Seoul has many tourist attractions such as 63 building, which is one of the tallest buildings around Han River. It is multi-tourists complex with varies ways to gather fun and excitement. It is even known as the ‘Golden tower’. Its observation tower gives you a clear view of surrounding city and the Incheon Sea.

Achasanseong fortress is one of the places worth viewing. Similarly there are many tourists attraction in the city and many Seoul hotels in the center of the city or around famous tourists’ attractions. Many of these hotels provide rooms with mountain or river view along with well maintained cleanliness and in-room facilities.

Kwangju, the 6th largest city in South Korea, is also one of the major economic and political centers of South Korea. It is also known as the city of art in Korea because of the famous Art Street, which consist of many stores specialize in art supplies, traditional and modern paintings and high quality ceramics pottery. The National Museum and the National Cemetery are other places of interest in the city. All these have attracted tourists and gave foothold to Kwangju Hotels in the country.

Similarly there are many hotels in South Korea that are established in the center of its main cities and offer excellent accommodation to tourists. They are famous for their attentive service and warm hospitality. It ranges from luxurious hotels to cheap hotels in South Korea that can suit the taste and budget of every need.

Taking a Tour of Busan

2009-03-19T09:40:00.000-07:00

Busan, also spelled as Pusan, is the second largest city in South Korea, after Seoul. Situated in South Gyeongsang, Busan has a population of nearly eight million people. As the nation's major as well as the largest sea port, Busan has a plethora of sea routes that serve as gateways to Japan as well as to the other prominent parts of the world.

Lying adjacent to the Korean Straits and Japan, this bustling city is also credited to be the first international city in Korea, and connects continents such as Asia, North America, and Europe. Located on the coast of the East Sea, Busan boasts of a stunning landscape comprising beautiful shorelines, gorgeous beaches, secluded islets, towering mountains, and lush green areas. Hence, it is not a wonder why Busan is sometimes referred to as 'the San Francisco of Korea'.

From towers, forts, and shrines to scenic attractions covering hot springs, Busan presents a host of attractions for people touring the place. In other words, sightseeing in Busan has been categorized into such as seashore sightseeing and interior land sightseeing.

Included in the seashore sightseeing are incredible islands and beaches such as Haeundae, Songjeong, and Gwangalli Beach. All of these beaches are a haven for enjoying a number of water sport activities such as jet skiing, boating, diving, banana boat rides, and much more. When comes to the interior land sightseeing, it covers downtown Busan, interesting museums, ancient shrines, historical monuments as well as ruins, stadiums, and cultural centers.

Some of the most popular museums in the area are Fisheries Museum, which is the first of its kind in the museum; Busan Marine Natural History Museum - the country's largest marine natural history museum; Busan Museum of Modern Art, which has on display artworks done by artists of Busan as well as Yungnam areas; Korean Tea Museum, exhibiting more than 100 varieties of teas; and Suyeong Historical Relics Folk Art Center, which contains such cultural displays as Suyoung Nonchong-nori and Jwasuyoungbang-nori.

If you are a spiritual traveler, then your trip to Busan would not be complete without taking a tour to such shrines in the area as SamGwang Temple, which is one of the most remarkable Buddhist shrines in the area; Tongdosa Temple, which is probably the prominent of all Buddhist temples in the country; and Beomeosa Temple Complex, with a Buddhist nunnery. Equally fabulous is the historical sites in the country such as Kumjongsanong, which is the country's largest walled mountain fortress. A segment of a park, the fortress is attached with a Buddhist Temple, apart from several pavilions and botanical gardens.

Further, your visit to Busan would be incomplete without taking a visit to some of its beautiful parks and gardens such as Busan Aquarium - a marine park featuring more than 250 species of marine animals; Yongdusan Park, which is one of the most scenic areas in the city with more than 70 species of trees; Olympic Park, which is a treasure trove of several magnificent sculptures.

Geumgang Botanical Garden, one of the largest botanical gardens in the country; and UN Memorial Park, which commemorates the soldiers of more than 15 countries who sacrificed their lives in the Korean War. For those looking for fun-filled vacation, Busan comes with a number of amusement parks like APEC Theme Park; Amusement Garden in Grand Children's Park; Taejongdae Amusement Park; and Jayu Land.

Other not to miss attractions in Busan are the Busan Tower, which is about 118 meters high and located within Yongdusan Park; Jalgalchi Fish Market, a must-visit spot in the city; Tongnae Hot Springs, boasting of two huge pools, of which one is hot spring water and another with cold water; Dongbaek Island, an ancient island which is home to camellias as well as pine trees; and Dalmaji Hill, a picturesque area located to the southeast of Haeundae Beach. Above all, Busan hosts a variety of festivals and events including sea festivals, fishing festivals, polar bear swimming festival, tourism festival, and film festival.

In short, Busan has everything for an enjoyable vacation. Hence, in order to cater to the growing number of tourists, Busan boasts of a number of accommodation options. Many of the top notch hotels and resorts in the area allow tourists to choose from a variety of rooms such as standard, deluxe, apartment style, and suits.

Get Intimate with Asia

2009-03-12T23:02:00.000-07:00

South Korea is one of the smaller nations in Asia, with a size comparable to the state of Indiana. What it lacks in size it makes up for in abundant culture, turbulent history, exquisite cuisine and a generous and welcoming society.

If you want to experience South Korea's rich culture, history, and cuisine, be sure to find discount airfare to Korea. cFares is a great place to find deals on wholesale travel to Korea. cFares offers amazing travel deals and discount airfare to Korea that just can't be found anywhere else. So if you looking to book a flight to Korea but want the best deal possible, check out cFares for discount airfare to Korea. Wholesale travel to Korea is the answer to finding the best travel deal.

A Little Background before You Travel to Korea

The Korean peninsula has been literally and figuratively stuck between a rock and a hard place, namely Japan and China, for most of its existence. The region was prosperous under the three kingdoms of Goguryeo, Baekje and Silla during the first four centuries AD until the Mongolians raided the land and built an empire. The 16th century brought the end of the Mongolian Empire and the beginning of a massive game of tug-of-war between China and Japan over the strategic landmass. After World War II Korea finally broke free from Japan, with the USSR managing the North and the United States occupying the South. Today the North and South are two sovereign nations separated by a demilitarized zone. South Korea is officially known as the Republic of Korea (ROK) and commonly referred to simply as Korea.

There's still Soul in Seoul

Despite the fact that Seoul was largely burned to the ground during the Korean War (1950-53), the northern part of the capital city is still home to hundreds of spectacular palaces and shrines. The Chosun Dynasty's Gyeongbokgung Palace is a 5.4 million square foot landmark with a 500-year history and stands among the remaining four palaces in Seoul. Nearly an entire day is necessary to explore the regal palace in all its magnificence. The Jongmyo Royal Shrine is a perfect next stop, as it was where the Chosun Dynasty worshipped. On the first Sunday of May each year a traditional memorial ceremony is held at the Shrine with all the grandeur of the occasion 500 years past.

The southern part of Seoul is the commercial center of the city and boasts a fascinating blend of traditional and hyper-modern architecture. It is also home to World Cup Stadium, intricately weaving shopping streets and even an amusement park, Lotte World. Make sure to visit the city gates, and then venture beyond into the strikingly lush and green landscape to travel Korea more personally.

When to Travel to Korea

Korea has a temperate clime, which results in heavier rain in the summer months (July and August) and a drier winter. Winter is white and snowy all over Korea and the ski season from November to March is extremely popular. There are 13 ski resorts in South Korea alone! After a day on the slopes it is common to relax in one of the many spas with natural hot spring baths. Summer is extremely crowded and very wet in Korea. For milder weather it is best to travel Korea in the spring or fall.

Traveling to South Korea any time of year is sure to be an exciting and rewarding experience, regardless of the weather!

For additional information on travel to Korea and other parts of Asia, visit.

Discover the Charms of Seoul

2009-03-12T22:56:00.000-07:00

The biggest as well as the capital city of the Republic of Korea (South Korea,) Seoul is an intriguing destination, situated in the mid western region of the Korean Peninsula, on the Han River, near the North Korean border, otherwise known as the de-militarised zone (DMZ), which in turn is a buffer zone between North Korea and South Korea. Spread over an area of 605 sq km, Seoul has been designated with the status of a Special City, and is directly under the administration of the national government.

Seoul's history dates back to as early as 18 BC when Paekche Kingdom made Wiryeseong, which is today's southeastern Seoul, as its capital. Later, Seoul became the capital of the Goryeo era during the 11th century. Seoul was then known as Southern Capital, which was later renamed Hanyang in 1394 when the Joseon dynasty made Seoul its capital.

In 1948, Seoul became the capital city of South Korea. Additionally, Seoul witnessed several wars and destruction during various phases of its history. But, Seoul has been now transformed into an international destination, with a sound commerce and sports scene. Despite its modern soaring buildings and sophisticated expressways, Seoul still retains its old world charm.

For those who want to enjoy the traditional culture of Korea, a visit to Seoul's Insa-dong would be a great experience. Situated in the middle of the city, Insa-dong is an exciting as well as colorful place with alleys on either site.

All of the alleys seen here are packed with traditional restaurants and teahouses, cafes, and shops, where both traditional and precious items are put for sale. It is also home to a number of interesting art galleries such as Gana Art Gallery, Gana Art Center, and Hakgojae Gallery, which is the center of folk art. One of the best ways to tour these galleries is via the Art Center Bus, which takes you to more than 10 much famed art galleries in the region.

Of the marvelous attractions in Seoul that deserve a special mention is the Gyeongbok Palace, also known as Northern Palace. Built in 1395 by Taejo Seonggye Lee of the Joseon Dynasty, Gyeongbok is perhaps the most beautiful of all palaces in the area.

Sprawling over an area of 495,000 the palace's highlights cover Geunjeongjeon - the main hall, Gyeonghoeru - the banquet pavilion, and Hyangwonjeong, which is island developed within a pond. Also, within the palace is the National Folk Museum, with some rare artifacts.

Another fabulous palace in Seoul is Deoksugung, which has to its credit an amazing mix of temples and gardens. Also, a great palace in the area is Changdeokgung Palace, which still serves as the residence of Royals. However, a guided tour is the required to take a visit to Changdeokgung Palace, the oldest palace in the city. Seoul's incredible attractions also include a variety of ancient shrines and pagodas, such as Chongmyo Shrine and Chogyesa Temple. A specialty is that many of the shrines in Seoul are graced with beautiful Buddhist art.

Your visit to Seoul would not be complete without taking a tour to Dongdaemun Market, which is dubbed as the 'Mecca of Fashion.' With a large collection of shopping malls, Dongdaemun Market is a place to shop a full range of clothing items and that too at cheap prices. Both retail and wholesale shops can be seen here, and few among them are Freya Town, Doosan Tower, Migliore, Designer's Club, Nuzzon, Migliore Valley, and Gwanghee Fashion Mall. Also, found in the vicinity is Dongdaemun Stadium, which is a great place to shop sporting materials.

Another popular market place in the area is Namdaemun Market, where everything from men and women's apparels, children's wear, and shoes to kitchenware, indigenous items, and imported goods can be shopped. Since this market area has such a great number of shopping malls, it is recommended to plan in advance prior to shopping.

A must-see attraction in Seoul is Mt. Namsan, a 252 m mountain located in the heart of the city. Mt Namsan and its surrounding areas have been maintained as a public park. Among the highlights of this symbolic mountain are the Palgakjeong Pavilion, Seoul Tower, Namsan Library, and a marine aquarium, and a botanical garden. You can reach the summit either via the hiking trail or through a cable car ride. Namsangol Traditional Korean Village is close to the mountain.

Other not to miss attraction in the area are War Memorial, National Theater, Korea House, Myong-dong Catholic Cathedral, Sejong Cultural Center, and Sejong Cultural Center.

North Korea on Vacation

2009-03-10T10:16:00.000-07:00

A country that is so deeply rooted in history is a place that all of us want to visit at some point during our lives. North Korea, the other name for Democratic People's Republic of Korea, is situated in East Asia and its capital is Pyongyang. South Korea, which has been separated from North Korea by the Demilitarized zone, is a country formed post the World War II. The closest neighbour to North Korea is Japan and China.

This is a country that grew tremendously post the World war and has not stopped in its efforts. It continues to dazzle the visitors with their culture and local traditions. Among the various things to see, here is a list of five things one should not miss while travelling in this part of the world.

Take a plane from the capital city of Pyongyang to reach Paekdusan, which is a place of great spiritual and religious significance. Paekdu, which is the highest mountain in North Korea, is also where the volcano with the largest crater lies. Called as Chonji, or Lake of Heaven, this crater is surrounded by various lakes. This place is very sacred to the locals, merely because it is here that the Son of Lord of heaven is said to have landed and where the first Korean Kingdom started.

Panmunjeom is a war related sight, this place is very popular with tourists who are keen on seeing the place where the war took place and which resulted in split in Korea. Panmunjeom is a place where anyone visiting Korea will be taken to, even though it is a sad place, which talks of all the lives lost during the war and how American imperialism affected Korea.

The pristine water falls, and the clear skies around the mountain ranges surrounding Myohyang make the visit worth the time. Myohyangsan, literally translates to mountain of mysterious Fragrance is filled with scenery and sights like nowhere else in the world. The main focus of this trip would be to visit the two shrines, one of which is a treasure chest of gifts given to Kim II Sung, and other is that of Kim Jong II. One can also walk around the beautiful mountains, and unwind.

Going along the Diamond mountains, otherwise referred to locally as the Kumgangsan, one can make their way to Koryong falls. Quite a walk awaits people who wish to get to the falls, so be prepared for a long trek up the hills, and this can prove quite challenging for some, if they are not physically fit. But the sights along the way are breath taking and truly a once in a lifetime experience.

Nampo is a place that has become the industrial center in North Korea is worth a visit to see how the industries function. The amount of hard work and labour that goes into the businesses is what helps the economy grow fast and flourishes with time.

The Imperium Art

2009-03-02T10:57:00.000-08:00

Music

Apart from the instruments used, traditional Korean music is characterized by improvisation and the lack of breaks between movements. A pansori performance can last for over eight hours during which a single singer performs continuously.

Rather than contrasting different speeds as it is common in Western music, most traditional Korean music begins with the slowest movement and then accelerates as the performance continues.

Korean court music, called jeongak, is closely related to the literate upper-class, and has a strong intellectual emphasis. Jeongak is played at a very slow pace, with single beats taking as long as three seconds. The beat matches the speed of breathing rather than the heartbeat as in most Western music, and feels static and meditative.

The tone of Jeongak is soft and tranquil because the traditional instruments are made of non-metallic materials. String instruments have strings made of silk rather than wire. Almost all wind instruments are made of bamboo.

Pungmul is Korea's folk music and is full of expressions and emotions. This kind of traditional music is closely related to the lives of common people. As with the Jeongak, improvisation is common in Minsogak.

Traditional Korean musical instruments can be divided into wind, string, and percussion types. Wind instruments include the piri (cylindrical oboe), taepyeongso (metal-bell shawm), daegeumsaenghwang (mouth organ) and the hun (ocarina). Traditional string instruments include zithers such as the gayageum, geomungo, and ajaeng, and the haegeum, a two-stringed fiddle.

A great number of traditional percussion instruments are used including the kkwaenggwari (hand-held gong), the jing (hanging gong), buk (barrel drum), janggu, (hourglass drum), bak (clapper), and pyeonjong (bell chimes or stone chimes), as well as the eo (tiger-shaped scraper) and the chuk (wooden box).

Dance

As with music, there is a distinction between court dances and folk dances. Common court dances are jeongjaemu performed at banquets, and ilmu, performed at Confucian rituals. Jeongjaemu is divided into native dances (hyangak jeongjae) and forms imported from China (dangak jeongjae). Ilmu are divided into civil dance (munmu) and military dance (mumu).

Religious dances include all the performances at shamanistic rites (gut). Secular dances include both group dances and individual performances.

Traditional choreography of court dances is reflected in many contemporary productions.

Homes

Sites of residence are traditionally selected using geomancy. It is believed that any topographical configuration generates invisible forces of good or ill (gi). The negative and positive energies (yin and yang) must be brought into balance.

A house should be built against a hill and face south to receive as much sunlight as possible. This orientation is still preferred in modern Korea. Geomancy also influences the shape of the building, the direction it faces and the material it is built of.

Traditional Korean houses can be structured into an inner wing (anchae) and an outer wing (sarangchae). The individual layout largely depends on the region and the wealth of the family. Whereas aristocrats used the outer wing for receptions, poorer people kept cattle in the sarangchae. The wealthier a family, the larger the house. However, it was forbidden to any family except for the king to have a residence of more than 99 kan. A kan is the distance between two pillars used in traditional houses.

The inner wing normally consisted of a living room, a kitchen and a wooden-floored central hall. More rooms may be attached to this. Poorer farmers would not have any outer wing. Floor heating (ondol) has been used in Korea for centuries. The main building materials are wood, clay, tile, stone, and thatch. Because wood and clay were the most common materials used in the past not many old buildings have survived into present times. Japan's kidnapping of an entire city known for its castle building skills built Japan's most famous castles and palaces, an act which the Japanese government has formally accepted and apologized for.

Garden

The principles of temple gardens and private gardens are the same. They generally resemble gardens in China, and the Japanese in turn adopted a similar garden layout from Korea. Part of the reason is because gardening in East Asia is heavily influenced by Taoism. Taoism emphasizes nature and mystery, paying great attention to the details of the layout. In contrast to Japanese and Chinese gardens which fill a garden with man made elements, traditional Korean gardens avoid artificialities, trying to make a garden more natural than nature.

The lotus pond is an important feature in the Korean garden. If there is a natural stream, often a pavilion is built next to it, allowing the pleasure of watching the water. Terraced flower beds are a common feature in traditional Korean gardens.

The Poseokjeong site near Gyeongju was built in the Silla period. It highlights the importance of water in traditional Korean gardens. The garden of Poseokjeong features an abalone-shaped watercourse. During the last days of the Silla kingdom, the king's guests would sit along the watercourse and chat while wine cups were floated during banquets.

Cuisine

Rice is the staple food of Korea. Having been an almost exclusively agricultural country until recently, the essential recipes in Korea are shaped by this experience. The main crops in Korea are rice, barley, and beans, but many supplementary crops are used. Fish and other seafood are also important because Korea is a peninsula.

Fermented recipes were also developed in early times. These include pickled fish and pickled vegetables. This kind of food provides essential proteins and vitamins during the winter.

A number of menus have been developed. These can be divided into ceremonial foods and ritual foods. Ceremonial foods are used when a child reaches 100 days, at the first birthday, at a wedding ceremony, and the sixtieth birthday. Ritual foods are used at funerals, at ancestral rites, shaman's offerings and as temple food.

Temple food is distinguished as it does not use the common five strong-flavoured ingredients of Korean cuisine (garlic, spring onion, wild rocambole, leek, and ginger), nor meat.

For ceremonies and rituals rice cakes are vital. The colouring of the food and the ingredients of the recipes are matched with a balance of yin and yang.

Today, surasang (traditional court cuisine) is available to the whole population. In the past vegetable dishes were essential, but meat consumption has increased. Traditional dishes include ssambap, bulgogi, sinseollo, kimchi, bibimbap, and gujeolpan.

Beliefs

The original religion of the Korean people was Shamanism, which though not as widespread as in ancient times, still survives to this day. Female shamans or mudang are often called upon to enlist the help of various spirits to achieve various means.

Buddhism and Confucianism were later introduced to Korea through cultural exchanges with China. Buddhism was the official religion of the Goryeo dynasty, and many privileges were given to Buddhist monks during this period. However, the Joseon period saw the suppression of Buddhism, where Buddhist monks and temples were banned
from the cities and confined to the countryside. In its place a strict from of Confucianism, which some see as even more strict that what had ever been adopted by the Chinese, became the official philosophy.

Even today, Confucianism still plays a major role Korean society, and respect for elders is still a major part of Korean family life. Throughout Korean history and culture, regardless of separation; the influence of traditional beliefs of Korean Shamanism, Mahayana Buddhism, Confucianism and Taoism have remained an underlying religion of the Korean people as well as a vital aspect of their culture, all these traditions coexisted peacefully for hundred years to today despite of stronger Westernization from Christian missionary conversions in the South or the pressure from Communism's atheist government in the North.

Kumsusan Memorial Palace

The final resting place of Kim il-Sung is only open on Fridays and Sundays. Sunday's will no doubt be busy with locals paying their respects to Kim il-Sung on their one and only day off. It is customary to dress in formal clothes, being a shirt and tie for men, or a respective dress for women.

After waiting in line, standing in rows that are 4-wide, your group will be escorted inside. Bags and cameras will be required to be deposited at the counter prior to entry.

There are hundreds of meters of moving walkways that navigate through the enormous compound that is now a mausoleum. Once in the room of the glass display with Kim's body, groups of four will advance one at a time.

It is custom that people bow at Kim's feet. Then move to the left (Kim's right), and bow again. Then walk around his head (no bow here), and bow one last time along Kim's left side.

Once outside of the building, you may take your camera and take photos.

The Ryugyong Hotel : unfinished "Hotel of Doom"

The tallest structure in P'yongyang has sat unfinished and dormant for nearly 20 years. The pyramid-shaped hotel, which would have rivaled any hotel in any major city, has been left as a shell for all to see. The 105 story building has sat dormant with rusting tower crane stuck in position since the Soviet Union disbanded in 1992, because they were the ecomonic benafactor for constrution.

Back in 1988, Seoul hosted the Olympic Games. P'yongyang believed that in good faith since they are also "Korea", that the South would have placed some of the events in P'yongyang's venues. This hotel was initiated to host the world for the Games. But once the government learned that the Games would not be shared, the project was put on hold.

To this day, the tower crane remains in position as it was 20 years ago. There are no windows, no utilities, no lights, nothing... It is a ghost structure. For that reason, it sometimes is called the "Ghost Hotel", or the "Hotel of Doom".

Grand People's Study House

This is a library for everybody. This is at least what they say. The rooms were packed with students, reading in old books, studying the Juche Ideology or simply study their major. As we have been in winter time and there is no heating, all students were wrapped in tons of clothes and it was still very freezing in there. They do have some books from abroad and they are supposed to have "every book that has been published in the 90's worldwide". To prove, they showed us some german books, which were published around the 50's and 60's and even those have never been seen from the students.

The building itself looks very beautiful from the outside. It is held in a traditional korean style with green roof.

Contemporary Culture

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There is a vast cult of personality around Kim Il-sung and Kim Jong-il and much of North Korea's literature, popular music, theater, and film glorify the two men.

A popular event in North Korea is the Mass Games. The most recent and largest Mass Games was called "Arirang". It was performed six nights a week for two months, and involved over 100,000 performers. Attendees to this event in recent years report that the anti-West sentiments have been toned down compared to previous performances. The Mass Games involve performances of dance, gymnastic, and choreographic routines which celebrate the history of North Korea and the Workers' Party Revolution. The Mass Games are held in Pyongyang at various venues (varying according to the scale of the Games in a particular year) including the May Day Stadium.

Culture is officially protected by the North Korean government. Large buildings committed to culture have been built, such as the People's Palace of Culture or the Grand People's Palace of Studies, both in Pyongyang. Outside the capital, there's a major theatre in Hamhung and in every city there are State-run theatres and stadiums.

Korean culture came under attack during the Japanese rule from 1910-1945. Japan enforced a cultural assimilation policy. Koreans were forced to learn and speak Japanese, adopt the Japanese family name system and Shinto religion, and forbidden to write or speak the Korean language in schools, businesses, or public places. In addition, the Japanese altered or destroyed various Korean monuments including Gyeongbok Palace and documents which portrayed the Japanese in a negative light were revised.

In July 2004, the Complex of Goguryeo Tombs became the first site in the country to be included in the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites.

In February 2008, The New York Philharmonic Orchestra became the first US musical group ever to perform in North Korea, albeit for a handpicked "invited audience".

Jeju Island

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We are offering you another wonderful weekend opportunity for you to see the beauty and history of Jeju Do. We will be full-time tourists, visiting a folk village and seeing the beautiful spring flowers that will be in full bloom and so much more.

After our arrival we will head to Seonyeo and Namuggun, a place where we can see replicas of city and country life from the 1960s and 70s as well as daily tools and utensils in use at that time. Outside, there is a gorgeous garden displaying many species of plants and flowers.

After a bit of history, we will head to a horse stable where we will all have the chance to enjoy trekking and feel the wind in our faces.

Following the horse riding we will have delicious black pork BBQ (famous in Jeju Do) for lunch. Then head to Udo (Cow Island).

After a quick 15 minute ferry ride to Udo, we can witness some of the most beautiful scenery in Jeju, such as the superb views that over look Ilchulbong (Sunrise Peak) and the whole of Jeju Island. We will hike up to the lighthouse and then down to the beaches to look at the Haenyeo (women divers) that are known for their great physical stamina.

They dive without scuba gear for abalone, conch and a myriad of other marine products, staying underwater for up to 2 minutes at a time, and reaching depths of 20 metres. Our final tourist stop for the day will be one of Korea’s folk villages, where we can see first hand what Jeju and other parts of Korea were like several hundred years ago. Many of the buildings have been relocated from other parts of South Korea, fully intact. Some are 200-300 years old.

At night we will be the only people staying in a beautiful hotel by the sea. Here you will have the chance to relax with you new AK friends and talk about the wonderful sites and experiences of the day. On Sunday we will start with a trip to Halla Botanical Gardens, to check out what Jeju has to offer us in plant species. Due to its temperate climate Jeju can boast a variety of flora from all over the world, both rare and common species that doesn’t grow in other parts of Korea.

Our second stop will be Mt. Songak where you can get a view of Marado Island; the southernmost island in South Korea. The island is remarkably flat. We may also get to see some lava tubes. Lunch will (haemultang), a seafood stew. After which we will visit a tea farm and see how tea is grown, harvested and prepared to make tea. We may even get to sample some green tea.

Next on the list we will be watching a Chinese acrobatic and motorbike show, where we will see stunning acrobatic performances, plus motorbike tricks. Our final stop before heading to the airport is Hallim Park. Not only does it offer everything for a botanical enthusiast but it also has a 500m walk through a lava tube cave Hyeopchaegul).

Beautiful Pyongyang

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Traffic has been increasing on the once-empty streets of this extraordinary capital. That said, little else has changed in Pyongyang (‘flat land’) over the last couple of decades. The city remains an eerie, unchanging place of wide streets, endless grey and white Soviet-style blocks, vast monuments to the party and an all-female team of fetishistically-clad traffic wardens manually directing traffic with domineering zeal.

In the best possible tradition of Minsk and Ashgabat, Pyongyang rose from the ashes of destruction and as such was a tabula rasa for the Kim dictatorship to impose its worldview on. Mysterious and grey, Pyongyang is definitely one of the world’s strangest capitals, often wrapped in a thick mist and dominated by the immeasurably sinister and humungous pyramid of the unfinished Ryugyong Hotel.

Every visit focuses heavily on Pyongyang –this is after all a city built to impress with a population of approved, privileged citizens and a slew of awe-inspiring sights your guides are happy to show you. It’s worth trying to get to know the city during your trip, as this is one of the few places you’ll have a chance to get to know in North Korea.

The guides will be falling over themselves to show you a succession of monuments, towers, statues, and buildings that apotheosise the Juche idea and propagate the achievements of the Kim regime. These include the Tower of the Juche Idea, the Chollima Statue and the Mansudae Grand Monument, a vast rendering of the Great Leader in bronze, to which every visitor is expected to pay floral homage.

While these are all impressive, if surreal, the real delights of Pyongyang are to be had in the quieter moments when you can get glimpses of everyday life. If possible, suggest walking between sights rather than driving, which the guides prefer. A gentle stroll on Pyongyang’s relatively relaxed Moran Hill, for example, will reveal that the locals have picnics, play music and idle away sunny afternoons. Despite the best attempts of the Korean Workers’ Party, there is a semblance of normality surviving in the capital. You just have to look hard for it.

Introducing North Korea

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North Korea still is one of the most reclusive countries of the world. Although there is a slight opening and some selected koreans are now allowed to visit their families in the south for a short day stay, visiting the country is still a highly organised operation for limited numbers of group tourists. Since access to North Korea is mainly via China, most visits are tacked on to China tours.

As you can see by this night satellite view of North Korea, in comparison to South Korea it's a happening place after dark.

More than 23 millions inhabitants live in this country. In comparisson, North Korea is slightly smaller than England and around 2000 square kilometers larger than South Korea. Most of its 120.540 sqkm territory is demilitarized zone, where you are not allowed to enter. The Democratic People's Republic of Korea is situated on the northern half of the Korean Peninsula. It shares borders in the south with the demilitarized zone (separating it from the Republic of Korea, see South Korea), in the east with Japan (by sea), in the north with China and in the west with the Yellow Sea.

Following World War II, Korea was split into a northern, communist half and a southern, Western-oriented half. Kim Chong Il has ruled North Korea since his father and the country's founder, president Kim Il Sung, died in 1994. After decades of mismanagement, the North relies heavily on international food aid to feed its population. Most of the land, particularly on the north and east regions, consists mostly of rugged mountains, separated by deep, narrow valleys. Only a small area is cultivable or exploitable. The eastern coast is rocky and steep with mountains rising from the water, the western coast is characterized by coastal plains. The average climate is temperate with rainfall concentrated in summer. It is very similar to that of South Korea, but colder and drier in the winter. Rainy season is from July to September, but autumn is cooler. Winters are long and frigid while summers are hot, rainy and humid. The best time of the year to visit North Korea is during the months of May, June, September and October.

Redefining the term rogue state through its isolationism, controversial nuclear weapons programme and missile testing, North Korea is probably the most mysterious country in the world today and one almost entirely untouched by tourism. Off the beaten path seems too slight a term for a nation that admits fewer than 2000 Westerners a year, and whose overwhelming attraction is its isolation and backwardness. The capital, Pyongyang, has a few sites worth visiting and Paekdusan is considered one of the most stunning sights in North Korea.

Here the Kim dynasty, which began life as a Soviet-sponsored communist government in the 1950s, has evolved into a hereditary dictatorship owing far more to Confucianism than Marxism. The founder of the state, Kim Il Sung, may have died in 1994, but he is still the president of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (the name locals prefer for their country). His son, a man who has only ever uttered one sentence in public (it was ‘Long Live the Victorious Korean People’s Army’ at a rally in Pyongyang in the early 1990s), continues to rule like a medieval monarch, an unknown quantity with nuclear weapons and a huge army at his beck and call, giving sleepless nights to governments in Seoul, Tokyo and Washington.

A trip to North Korea is strictly on its government’s terms, and it’s essential to accept that you’ll have no independence during your trip – you’ll be accompanied by two government-approved local guides at all times and only hear a very one-sided view of history throughout the trip. Those who can accept these terms will have a fascinating trip into another rather unsettling world. Simply to see a country where the Cold War is still being fought, where mobile phones and the internet are unknown, and where total obedience to the state is universally unquestioned is, for many, reason enough to visit.

Adventure of Fuji

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The most popular period for people to hike up Mt. Fuji is from 1 July to 27 August, while huts and other facilities are operating. Buses to the fifth station start running on 1 July. Some climb the mountain at night in order to be in a position at or near the summit when the sun rises.

There are four major routes from the fifth station to the summit with an additional four routes from the foot of the mountain. The major routes from the fifth station are (clockwise) the Kawaguchiko, Subashiri, Gotemba, and Fujinomiya routes. The routes from the foot of the mountain are the Shojiko, Yoshida, Suyama, and Murayama routes. The stations on different routes are at different elevations. The highest fifth station is located at Fujinomiya, followed by Kawaguchi, Subashiri, and Gotemba.

Even though it is only the second highest fifth station, the Kawaguchiko route is the most popular route because of its large parking area and many and large mountain huts where a climber can rest or stay. During the summer season, most Mount Fuji climbing tour buses arrive there. The next popular is the Fujinomiya route which has the highest fifth station, followed by Subashiri and Gotemba.

Even though most climbers do not climb the Subashiri and Gotemba routes, many descend these because of their ash-covered paths. From the seventh station to near the fifth station, one could run down these ash-covered paths in approximately 30 minutes. Besides these routes, there are tractor routes along the climbing routes. These tractor routes are used to bring food and other materials to huts on the mountain. Because the tractors usually take up most of the width of these path and they tend to push large rocks from the side of the path, the tractor paths are off-limits to the climbers on sections that are not merged with the climbing or descending paths. Nevertheless, one can sometimes see people riding mountain bikes along the tractor routes down from the summit. This is particularly risky, as it becomes difficult to control speed and may send some rocks rolling along the side of the path, which may hit other people.

The four routes from the foot of the mountain offer historical sites. The Murayama is the oldest Mount Fuji route and the Yoshida route still has many old shrines, teahouses, and huts along its path. These routes are gaining popularity recently and are being restored, but climbing from the foot of the mountain is still relatively uncommon. Also, bears have been sighted along the Yoshida route.

An estimated 200,000 people climb Mount Fuji every year, 30% of whom are foreigners. The ascent from the new fifth station can take anywhere between three and eight hours while the descent can take from two to five hours. The hike from the foot of the mountain is divided into 10 stations, and there are paved roads up to the fifth station, which is about 2,300 meters above sea level. Huts at and above the fifth stations are usually manned during the climbing season, but huts below fifth stations are not usually manned for climbers. The number of open huts on routes are proportional to the number of climbers - Kawaguchiko has the most while Gotemba has the least. The huts along the Gotemba route also tend to start later and close earlier than those at the Kawaguchiko route. Also, because Mount Fuji is designated as a national park, it is illegal to tent above the fifth station.

There are eight peaks around the crater at the summit. The highest point in Japan is where the Mount Fuji Radar System used to be. Climbers are able to visit each of these peaks.

Official Climbing Season

July and August are the official climbing season. During the two months, the mountain is usually free of snow, the weather is relatively mild, access by public transportation is easy and the mountain huts are open. Everybody without much hiking experience is strongly advised to tackle the mountain during the official climbing season.

The Crowds

Climbing Mount Fuji is very popular not only among the Japanese, but also among foreign tourists, who seem to make up more than a third of all hikers. The peak season for climbing Mount Fuji is during the school vacations which last from around July 20 to the end of August. The peak of the peak is reached during the Obon Week in mid August, when climbers literally have to stand in queues at some passages.

While you may want to avoid the Obon Week, we believe that by avoiding the crowds in general, you will miss out one of the most interesting aspects of climbing Mount Fuji, which is the camaraderie and unique experience of ascending the mountain among hundreds of equally minded people from across the world.

In order to encounter neither too large nor too small crowds, we recommend to climb Mount Fuji on a weekday in the first half of July before the start of the school vacations. The downside of a climb in early July is the weather, which tends to be somewhat more unstable than later in the season.

Off Season

Some mountain huts open a few days before the start of the official climbing season and/or remain opened until around mid September. While there is usually no or only little snow on Mount Fuji until October, temperatures at the summit can drop to far below zero in the shoulder seasons. Only experienced hikers with a strong urge to avoid the crowds, should consider the ascent in late June or September.

From October to around mid June, climbing to the summit is highly perilous due to extreme wind and weather conditions, snow, ice and a high risk of avalanches.

Timing

Most people try to time their ascent in order to witness the sunrise from the summit. Also, the chances of the mounatin being free of clouds, are highest during the early morning hours.

The recommended way of doing this, is to climb to a mountain hut around the 7th or 8th station on the first day, spend some hours sleeping there, before continuing to the summit early on the second day. Note that the sunrise takes place as early as 4:30am to 5:00am in summer.

Another popular way is to start climbing the mountain around 10pm from the 5th Station and hike through the night to reach the summit around sunrise. Obviously, this is a more tiring way of climbing the mountain and brings an increased risk of falling victim to altitude sickness.

A walk around the crater takes about one hour. The mountain's and Japan's highest point is located immediately next to the weather station on the opposite side from where the Yoshidaguchi Trail reaches the summit.

Mountain Huts

The Kawaguchiko Trail is lined by more than a dozen mountain huts between the 7th and 8th station. Other trails have much fewer mountain huts. An overnight stay typically costs around 5000 Yen per person without and around 7000 Yen per person with two meals. During the peak, expect the huts to be extremely crowded. The Fuji-Yoshida City website (see below) lists phone numbers for reservations.

The trails

The ascent to the summit does not pose any major difficulties regarding climbing skills. Only at some points, the terrain is rather steep and rocky. Abundant signs along the trail warn the hikers of other minor problems such as sudden wind gusts and falling rocks. However, the main challenge of the climb is the fact that it is very strenuous and the air gets notably thinner as you gain altitude.

Climbing Equipment

In order to enjoy a safe hike to the summit of Mount Fuji, it is crucial to bring the proper equipment. Some of the most important things to bring are listed below:

Proper Shoes
The rocky, steep terrain in some sections and the potential of sudden, strong wind gusts are reasons to bring proper hiking shoes which protect your ankles.

Proper Clothes
Bring proper protection against low temperatures and strong winds. It can be below zero at the summit, and strong winds often make it seem even colder. Bring rain gear, as weather conditions can change very quickly in the mountains. Gloves are recommended both against the coldness and for hiking the steep, rocky passages.

Flashlight
If you hike during nighttime, a flash light is highly recommended in any season and essential outside of the peak season, when the trail is not illuminated by other hikers. Most people choose head lamps, as they leave both of your hands free.

Food
Particularly on the trails where there are few mountain huts, it is important to bring enough water and food. Mountain huts offer various meals and drinks. Note, however, that prices increase with the altitude. Also, be prepared to carry home all your garbage as there are no garbage bins on Mount Fuji.

Altitude Sickness

The human body requires some time to adjust to a sudden increase of altitude, otherwise there is a risk of headache, dizziness and nausea. Quite a few people, who climb Mount Fuji, fall victim to altitude sickness.

To avoid altitude sickness, you are advised to tackle the mountain at a slow pace and make frequent breaks. An overnight stay at a hut around the 7th or 8th station is recommended as opposed to a straight climb to the top. Small bottles of oxygen, available at the 5th stations and mountain huts, can be an effective tool in preventing and fighting altitude sickness.

Mount Fuji : the New 7 Wonders of Nature

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Mount Fuji also called, as Fujiyama is the most poplar and undisputedly the number one landmark of Japan. It is located on the Southern Honshu Island and is the highest mountain in Japan, rising to 12,388 feet (3,776 m) near the Pacific coast in Yamanashi and Shizuoka ken, 100 km west of Tokyo, with the apex broken by a cone-shaped crater 610 m (2000 ft) in diameter.

Mount Fuji is relatively a young volcano and has attained its present shape about 5000 years ago and was a result of a series of volcanic activities by the Ashitakayama/Ko-Mitake (Small Mitake), Ko-Fuji (Old Fuji) and Shin-Fuji (New Fuji) volcanoes. The Ko-Mitake volcano is dormant since 100 thousand years ago. The Ko-Fuji volcano, which formed the base of the current, Mount Fuji was active between 100 thousand and 10 thousand years ago. Shin-Fuji volcano which is responsible for the mountain’s current shape started to erupt about 10 thousand years ago and erupted repeatedly for over 100 times during a period of about 10 thousand years. Mount Fuji last erupted on November 24, 1707 and has been sleeping since then, but still the geologists regard it as an active volcano.

‘The Holy Mountain’, is what Mount Fuji is called as and its name of Ainu origin implies “everlasting life.” Thousands of pilgrims visit the mountain from all parts of Japan and there are a number of shrines and temples are on its slopes.

The major attraction of the mountain is certainly the various views it provides that change along with seasons and even as the time flows during a day. During winter, it is a flawless volcanic cone with its snow-capped tops, so winters and early spring are the best seasons to to catch the best view of this picture-perfect mountain. Five lakes surround the northern side of Mount Fuji, namely: Lake Motosuko, Lake Shojinko, Lake Kawaguchi, Lake Yamanako, and Lake Subarshiri, which are frequently visited by tourists. These lakes provide a good view of Mount Fuji alongside different water sports.

The official and the best climbing season of Mount Fuji is from 1st July to 31st August every year as the weather is very nice and pleasant. Conquering this sacred mountain by both young and old at their own caliber with a proper plan and equipments is a great achievement in itself. As we go above from the base of the mountain to its apex there are 10 posts in between.

You need not start your climb from the base itself as you can reach the 4th or the 5th post by road and from here it takes about 4-5 hours to reach the peak and about 2-3 hours to descend. Huts and lodges are situated all over the mountainside and are quite affordable and provide meals to the climbers and the tourists. But Camping is not allowed on the mountain. There are various routes on offer for climbing Mount Fuji, including: Fujinomiya trail, Gotenba trail, and Subashiri trail.

The splendor of Mount Fuji has been viewed by millions and has been praised and written about by numerous travel writers, poets and presented in different art forms by painters all over the world.

Heritage

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Shiretoko
Places:Shari-cho, Shari-gun/Rausu-cho, Menashi-gun, Hokkaido

Shiretoko, a new natural heritage site registered only in July 2005, is considered to be the last pristine wilderness remaining in Japan. Shiretoko is a long narrow peninsula located in northeastern Hokkaido. The volcanic Shiretoko mountain range runs down the center of the peninsula and includes the highest peak of the range, Rausu-dake (1,661 m above sea level) and the active volcano Iouyama. The Sea of Okhotsk lies on the western side of the range and the Nemuro Straits on the eastern side. The coastline cliffs facing the Sea of Okhotsk rise up more than 100 m high, and you can glimpse waterfalls large and small cascading directly into the sea, and colonies of seabirds.

The salmon and trout that breed in the sea off Shiretoko are an important food resource supporting the terrestrial ecosystem with rare birds such as Blakiston's fish owl, Steller's sea eagle and the white-tailed sea eagle, as well as brown bears. The Shiretoko ecosystem is a dramatically clear example of the linkage between marine and terrestrial ecosystems, and it is considered an important wildlife reserve, with unique features unlike any other in the world.

Shiretoko, blessed with mountains, lakes and an abundance of plants and animals, offers many places of interest throughout the seasons. A good example is the Shiretoko Goko or Shiretoko Five Lakes, situated on a lava plateau surrounded by old-growth forest. The five lakes don't have individual names; they are referred to by number from Lake No. 1 to Lake No. 5. If you take a stroll along the walking trail (takes approximately 1 hour), you may see wild animals and will certainly enjoy the beauty of the changing seasons.

In the fall, when the mountains are adorned in red and yellow, the hoards of salmon and trout swarming up river to spawn are an incredible sight. In winter, there is also beautiful scenery as the drifting ice changes the Sea of Okhotsk into a white snowfield. There are various nature experience programs available at the site such as night tours for animal watching under wonderful starlit skies, daytime treks for alpine plant spotting while surrounded by birds singing, or nature watching enjoying waterfalls and wild animals while walking along the trail. It is highly recommended to contact Shiretoko Nature Center before departing.

Himeji-jo Castle, Himeji City

Hyogo prefecture

Because its pure white appearance with white plaster coating looks like a dancing Shirasagi (Egret) with wings spread, this famous castle is also called the "Shirasagi-jo" or "Hakuro-jo". It was spared from damage during the war and from many other disasters and is in a remarkably preserved state compared to other castles. Seventy-four structures within the castle site including a tower and gate are designated as important cultural assets of Japan.

The year of establishment was 1346. Later, the warlord Toyotomi Hideyoshi (1536-1589), who ruled over most of Japan, built a full-scale castle wall, which became the base for present-day Himeji-jo. At the start of the Edo period, the castle underwent considerable renovation over a 9-year period to create the magnificent appearance we see today.

If you are confident in the strength of your legs and back to climb up and down, you should take a look around the inside of the castle. Clearly, beauty was not the only priority of those in power throughout the ages. Its complicated structure, particularly the three tall watchtowers connected by columns and winding maze-like passages, functions well as a war fort and conceals a mechanism to halt the invasion of enemies and throw them into confusion. The design is intended to prevent access to the tallest watchtower and castle keep, situated at the heart of the castle, which functions as a center, so beware if you go there without a map, you may get lost!

Among the many gates are the remains of gate mechanisms for dropping stones on the enemy if they manage to enter, or gates with an extremely narrow passageway so that not many people could pass at once. Numerous holes to shoot from are made in the castle wall and there are windows from which to drop gigantic stones on the enemy, too. It is very interesting that there is a kitchen in the inner court in case the castle falls under siege or an attempt is made to starve out the occupants. By the way, the thick coating of white plaster on the outer surface is not just there for aesthetic purposes but also for defense, because of its excellent resistance to fire and bullets.

The castle keep rising from the peak of Mt. Hime-yama is built with a total height of 32 m on a stone wall approx. 15 m high, and the view from the top of the keep is spectacular. On a fine day, you can imagine the emotions of a feudal warlord with his ambitions to dominate the whole country. At night, the entire castle is lit up, so a visit after sunset is highly recommended as well.

Gusuku Sites and Related Properties of the Kingdom of Ryukyu

Okinawa prefecture

Cultural heritage sites are scattered among the southernmost islands of Japan and on the main island of Okinawa. There are 9 ruins symbolizing the unique culture and religious beliefs of the Kingdom of Ryukyu that once flourished here.

In Okinawa, dictatorships began to arise in various areas from around the twelfth century, and castle-like buildings called "Gusuku" were constructed. However, these buildings were not like Himeji-jo Castle, which is registered as a world heritage site as well, but more like a fort. Gusuku were also treated as sacred sites under local religious belief. When the 14th century came along, each area was unified into three counties and the unified Kingdom of Ryukyu was finally established in 1429. In line with this, the symbol of the Kingdom "Shuri-jo Castle" became the sole Gusuku.

Shuri-jo is built on upland 120 m above sea level overlooking Naha City. The castle area surrounded by stone walls approx. 10 m high is 400 m east to west and 270 m north to south. Inside the castle, there is an open space and facilities for political, cultural and diplomatic activities and festivals, and the largest wooden structure in Okinawa "Shoden (central building)" was built on the castle premises. This building shows a strong influence from various cultures including from Japan and China, which proves that trade with Asian countries was very active at the time. The pattern of dragons or vermilion lacquer coating shows the influence of China, and the structural form of the roof shows the influence of Japan. Shurijo was completely destroyed in World War II and most of the present buildings are reproductions built up until 1992. Because this place is used as a location for TV dramas, it attracts many tourists.

On the west side of Shurijo is a massive stone structure, "Tamaudun", created using a natural rocky outcrop. This is the tomb of the successive royal families of the Kingdom of Ryukyu, and the inside of the tomb is paved with coral reef fragments, and at the center of the structure and in the east and west towers stand lion statues called Shisa, which are a symbol of Okinawa and a charm against evil.

Naha city, Chinen village, Nakagusuku village, Kitanakagusuku village, Katsuren town, Yomitan village, Nakijin village, all on the Okinawa Main Island in Okinawa prefecture.

Akihabara - Tokyo's Hobby Heaven

2009-02-25T22:52:00.000-08:00

From its post-war life as the place to buy electric goods, Akihabara (often abbreviated to its pet name, Akiba) has constantly moved with the times. It became Tokyo's commercial center for consumer electronics in the '80s, and through the following decade it morphed into an area specializing in computers and software. From the late '90s to the present day, it has become the world capital of otaku culture—the realm of obsessive fans immersed in some aspect of Japanese pop culture.

Last year brought more significant change. The opening of the Tsukuba Express("TX") rail line connected Akihabara with the city of Tsukuba, a major research hub and a fast-developing bedroom community. Business complexes with striking contemporary architecture have sprung up around the station. As these towers cast long shadows over the otaku town of small shops stacked in old multi-tenant buildings, one cannot help sensing the beckoning of a new era.

Anime, comics, games, "maids," and more...this is a place without peer around the world. It is the world of the otaku actualized. We invite you to visit the Capital of Hobbies.

Grand Shrine at Ise

2009-02-25T22:45:00.000-08:00

The buildings of Ise Jingu are constructed in a style called yui-itsu shinmei zukuri with a central pillar, thatched roof, and plain cedar walls. It developed about 1,300 years ago during the reign of Emperor Temmu and Empress Jito. Since then, with the exception of the Warring States period in the 15th and 16th centuries, the shrine has been rebuilt every 20 years in the ceremony of shikinen sengu. Shikinen means "a set number of years" and sengu means "transferring the shrine."

The shrine is built in exactly the same design and proportions on a plot next to the old one, and the yatakagami (eight sided) mirror of Amaterasu Omikami, the sun goddess, is transferred from the old shrine to the new. The shrine moves alternately to the east and back to the west.

The first sengu took place in 690 AD. The shrine forest, known as misomayama, was established as the source of lumber for the rebuilding. Until the end of the Kamakura period (1185-1333) these woods provided all the cedar needed for the shrine transference ceremony. After that, the source of lumber changed to another area famous for its cedar: Kiso in Gifu and Aichi prefectures.

"One sengu cycle requires a massive amount of cedar, from 8,500 to 10,000 cubic meters about 10,000 logs. Moreover, 90 percent of these need to be more than 200 years old and at least 60 centimeters in diameter. The columns on either side of the shrine, known as munemochi-bashira, are cut from trees roughly 400 years old. Lumber for the doors must be 1.2 meters wide unblemished, with no joints. Builders cannot reuse old wood; they must cut all new timber and prepare it within the shrine precincts," says Masayuki Murase. For the past 26 years Murase, a forestry engineer, has devoted his life to Ise's trees.

The forest around the Inner and Outer Shrines has an area of about 5,500 hectares. This is divided into 'divine precincts' and 'shrine precincts.' Divine precincts are devoted to the integrity of the shrine woods and it is forbidden to cut trees there, except if needed for the health of other trees. Shrine precincts are divided into two categories. The first is basically the same as the divine precincts the purpose of the trees is to improve the scenery, so nothing is cut.

The intent of the second category of shrine precinct is to protect the headwaters of the Isuzu River as well as the scenery. In this area there are man-made plantations of cedar to be used for shrine building. This is because in 1923 the Shrine Precincts Preservation Committee did a study on the condition of the forests and noticed a striking decline. As a result, they started planting cedars around the headwaters and set up a 200 years plan so cedar can once again be obtained from the shrine's own forests. Those trees are now 80 years old.

The last time any lumber was taken from the shine precincts was in 1391. It is the dream of those looking after the forest that once again it will be the source of lumber for rebuilding the shrine. Foresters have laid the groundwork for an environment conducive to cedar, a sensitive species. Their efforts are paying off: in 2014 about 20 percent of the lumber for the 62nd sengu will come from these woods. That will be the first time in 700 years, and the thought makes Murase's eyes sparkle.

"Inside the shrine precincts," he says, "there are cedars marked 'candidates for great trees.' They've been set aside for lumber to be used 200 years from now. We will nurture them to grow until they reach a diameter of more than 1 meter."

In rebuilding the shrine there's a ceremony called misoma-hajimesai for cutting the most auspicious tree the wood that will enshrine the goshintai (object of worship where the deity's spirit dwells). The 1,300 years old tradition requires that three persons wield their axes from three different directions. Murase says, "This is the quintessential way to cut a tree. Unless it is done right, the tree will not be cut properly even if we use a chain saw."

Young forestry staff train for the ceremony, practicing proper axe handling and traditional wood cutting methods. Before they begin, they must obtain permission to fell the trees from the gods of the forest. We observed a practice session. Removing their helmets, the young men politely bowed to the trees, deliberately lifted their axes, and started cutting. Shouting words of encouragement, they finally felled one tree after about an hour. Then they placed the treetop in the center of the stump and performed kabu-matsuri (tree-felling ceremony).

"In this way," Murase explains, "we present the gods of the forest with the root and top of the tree. It expresses our intention of taking only the middle and returning the rest to the gods."

In accordance, Murase and his young staff inserted the treetop into the stump. It would take less than 5 minutes to cut a 200 or 300 years old tree with a chain saw. However, a reverent mindset and proper etiquette are necessary to cut a tree that has been living for so long.

This mindset and the accompanying skills have been handed down at Ise Shrine through the shikinen sengu ceremony. By rebuilding once every 20 years and transferring the deity to a new dwelling, the deity gains renewed power and spirit, rejuvenating the strength of the nation. The grand ceremony, unparalleled anywhere in the world, has extended respect and skills across generations, preserving the cycle of nature and nurturing both the forest and the hearts of the Japanese people.

Forbidden Forest, The Primeval Woodsof Miyazaki's Animation

2009-02-25T22:43:00.000-08:00

In the opening scene of Miyazaki's 1997 Princess Mononoke, set in medieval Japan, range after range of mountains appears. Below them are the following words: "In ancient times the land lay covered in forests where from ages long past dwelt the spirits of the gods."

In the sacred woods that are threatened by encroaching development in Miyazaki's film, there dwells not only the many-horned Shishigami (Deer God), but also the spirits of trees, and animals that understand human speech. The feeling of this mysterious forest is expressed simply in the words of 20th-century writer Georges Bataille, describing France's prehistoric cave paintings: "The animals of Lascaux are at the level of gods or kings." Indeed, in the forest of the Shishigami, animals discover their divinity.

In Miyazaki's 1988 My Neighbor Totoro the hills, where the young girl Mei and the forest spirit Totoro meet, are called Tsukamori (Tumulus Woods). The kanji for tumulus can mean an ancient tomb or grave, so the name suggests a quiet, sacred place. It's not difficult for our imaginations to leap from this name to the idea of forbidden woods. Even today throughout Japan there are shrines with forbidden woods within their grounds. The woods came first, followed by the building of a shrine. That is, our sense of awe came first, and afterwards we developed techniques and trappings of religion to appease the gods. We put up a torii gate and hang sacred ropes in the forbidden forest, but in the end this is nothing but the cleverness of adults. In proof of this, the young heroine Mei, ignorant of the meaning of an entrance path, manages to find her way through a brambly maze to discover the inner mystery of the forest, namely Totoro.

In Princess Mononoke the forests are similarly forbidden territory. The deep woods are a maze that keeps people away. The feeling that something lurks in the deep, dark recesses of the forest stops people from wanting to walk inside. Places that were once divine or sacred are uncomfortable for adult human beings, and only shamans or those who have not learned fear, like children, dare enter. Thus only the young hero Ashitaka, descendant of the Emishi people "with unclouded eyes," or the wolf-girl San are able to see the Shishigami.

When we think about it, the forest of the Sea of Corruption in Miyazaki's 1984 Nausica of the Valley of the Wind, is a kind of forbidden wood filled with savage insects and poisonous spores. What is hidden in the heart of this forest is neither god nor ghost, but truth. It is young Princess Nausica egoless and without fear of the forest, who is able to penetrate to the truth: that the Sea of Corruption is simply a means of purifying the polluted world.

For us, lost in our modern lives, no longer remembering the childhood belief that "something" lurks in the deepest woods, the forests in Miyazaki's animations are nostalgic and terrifying at the same time. Indeed, a ticket to a Miyazaki anime is the passport to enter a forbidden forest.

Forest of Japan's Holy Heartland

2009-02-25T22:39:00.000-08:00

Two-thirds of Japan is forested, but throughout the archipelago, from the subarctic to the subtropical zones, virgin forest accounts for only 1 percent of the trees. One could say that the basis of Japan's culture and spirituality lies in these forests. The deep woods—sacred places into which men did not lightly tread—evoked reverence and stirred the imagination. As if it were embedded in our DNA, awe of sacred trees still dwells in the hearts of modern Japanese.

Kumano

Many forests are rich in natural beauty, but if one is seeking supernatural spirit, Kumano tops the list. Stretching across the Kii Peninsula in Wakayama prefecture, it has peaks and valleys lined up one after another like waves billowing across the sea. This area of remote mountains was a pilgrimage route from the Heian period (794-1192) through the Edo period (1603-1867). Commoners and emperors alike came to its three great shrines. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is still used by ascetics for spiritual practice. In the Heian period, these mountains and forests were considered the Pure Land of Buddhism, therefore sacred. Today the hills are largely covered with Japanese cedar plantations, but in antiquity the glossy-leafed temperate forest was dark and deep and full of spiritual feeling. Even now mossy stone walls and ancient Jizo carvings line the old winding path. There is a feeling of awe toward something invisible, and at the same time the simple thought of one's tiny existence within it all. One could say Japan's sense of nature is completely summed up by this feeling. These forests gave birth to writers Kumagusu Minakata, Haruo Sato, and Kenji Nakagami. These are forests that stir the imagination.

100,000 Sacred Woods remain in Japan

For the Japanese, living in one of the world's most densely forested countries, the forests that always meant the most were the "sacred woods." These were revered as the dwelling places of gods and seen as bringing blessings to human beings. At the same time, the woods were feared as awesome places, which led our ancestors instinctively to worship them.

Masaaki Ueda, professor emeritus at Kyoto University, is chairman of the Shaso Gakkai, a society established for the study, protection, and development of these sacred sites. He says sacred woods were the focal point of interaction between men and gods as far back as Jomon times (10,000 to 300 BC), thus making them the primal place in Japanese culture.

Ueda says, "The Japanese viewed giant trees and pillars as yorishiro—meaning 'a place where the gods draw near.' Even as they cut down the forests to develop rice paddies or towns, there was a sense of taboo, that if you felled a tree in a sacred forest, you would be cursed. As a result they preserved woods with original flora.

Although established as forbidden forests that people were not supposed to enter, the sacred woods became the center of the village community because people could gather around them and offer performances of dance and music to the gods." Sacred woods, which preserved the original trees of the area, are biological treasure houses. And in modern times they have played an important role in environmental preservation. Akira Miyawaki, professor emeritus at Yokohama University and director of the International Ecological Research Institute, has carried out 1,500 forestation programs since 1970. He is promoting the creation of sacred forests for the 21st century under the slogan "hometown forests with hometown trees." Stressing the strength and benefits found only in woods filled with original trees, he says, "Trees that have developed in a local climate not only grow well by themselves without much tending, but also are durable and resistant to severe occurrences such as earthquakes, typhoons, and fires. The few remaining forests with native trees are the sacred forests of the nation of Japan." Sacred woods, at the root of Japanese culture, are being rediscovered in the 21st century in light of increased environmental awareness. They reflect a Japanese view of nature based on the pantheistic belief that spirits reside in stones, plants, and trees. The belief has as its premise harmony and co-existence with nature.

The Grove of Sacred Forest

The illustration is the symbol of the Shaso Gakkai, the society dedicated to sacred sites. The torii gate stands at the beginning of the entry path, which leads man into the gods' dwelling place. As you pass under the torii, you enter the precincts of the sacred wood within which stand the shrine buildings. Spreading out around you is the "forbidden forest," preserved as the realm of gods where human feet should never tread. On the mountain rising behind the forbidden forest, Japanese people felt the divine spirit and it became the object of worship.

Matsuri, the Japanese Festivals

2009-02-25T22:30:00.000-08:00

Matsuri - Ekibyobarai
Kyoto Gion Matsuri

Kyoto's most elaborate festival ensued from appeals to banish a devastating plague in the summer of 869. When it duly abated, a great festival of thanksgiving to the illustrious kami of Yasaka Shrine was held at the emperor's behest. A century later the festival was instituted as an annual event, in praise and continuing petition for ever-renewed blessings upon the city. Through the centuries the event has gained in splendor, reaching today's grand proportions as a nearly month-long series of rites and festivities.

Chichibu Kawase Matsuri

For more than 300 years, the townfolk of Chichibu, in the mountains of Saitama, have celebrated Kawase Matsuri. Inspired by the famous festival of Kyoto, it is also known as Chichibu's O-Gion. In fact, in the precincts of Chichibu Shrine is a small Yasaka Shrine associated with the main one in Kyoto, and the kami of both shrines are honored at this festival. Rites include an evening children's parade, a midnight drawing of sacred water from the river, and the next-day procession of magnificent floats bedecked with umbrellas of paper flowers.

Matsuri - Shinwa
Nachi-no Hi Matsuri

The deified waterfall at Kumano Nachi Taisha is the site of an annual fire festival which honors Emperor Jimmu who, according to legend, stopped here to pray before going on to conquer ancient Yamato. The twelve unique ogi mikoshi, each a tall fan-decorated standard in which a deity temporarily resides during the celebration, represent the sacred waterfall, which at 130 meters is the highest in Japan. Shrine priests convey offerings to an altar set among them near the foot of the falls.

Saikusa Matsuri

Wild lilies, yuri, once grew in abundance on sacred Mt. Miwa. There among them lived and played Princess Isuzu, and it is said that Japan's legendary first emperor Jimmu, great-great grandson of the sun goddess, once visited her on the mountainside in lily season. When she died, her spirit was there enshrined, and during Saikusa-no Matsuri, often simply called Yuri Matsuri, offerings of lilies are presented to her spirit, both in dance and as adornment for the cask of sacred sake.

Ko-no-mono Sai

Long ago, in gratitude for nature's bounty, villagers here placed vegetables and sea salt together in offering to the field god. It was discovered, after a time, that they had been transformed, and people gathered around to taste these strange "fragrant things" this gift from the gods. This is the origin of Japan's tsukemono, pickled vegetables. When Yamato Takeru, a legendary hero credited with extending the frontiers of Yamato, stopped here to rest and pray, villagers gave him some as a charm against all illnesses.

Torigoe Yo Matsuri

Warrior Yamato Takeru, enshrined and worshiped at Torigoe Shrine, is honored with an authentic "downtown" festival which draws huge crowds. The so-called obake (monster) mikoshi, said to be the heaviest in Tokyo at four tons, is paraded through parish streets by hundreds of happi-clad bearers to entertain and honor the deity within and ask for his favor. The parade carries on throughout the day, and then in the evening returns to the shrine by atmospheric lanternlight.

Matsuri - Hosaku
Sumiyoshi-no O-Taue Sai

During Sumiyoshi Shrine's Rice Planting Festival, eight ceremonial maidens called ue-me, wearing hana-gasa hats decorated with paper representations of cotton flowers, legendary dispellers of thunder, carry sanctified rice seedlings in procession to the shrine rice paddy. Shimo ue-me, planting girls dressed in white, red, and indigo field clothes and wearing straw hats, plant the seedlings to the accompaniment of traditional rice-planting songs and dances performed on a nearby stage and around the field to entertain both gods and onlookers.

Suneori Amagoi

In supplication for sufficient rain for the continuing growth of the rice crop, Tsurugashima-machi honors the legendary water-loving serpent said to have once lived in Kandachi Pond. Townfolk construct a giant bamboo-and-straw snake, parading it into the water, symbolically taking it back to its original dwelling place. Inside its great mouth are an ofuda charm from Kandachi Shrine and the Shinto zig-zag-folded paper shide and sprig of evergreen sakaki which mark the creature as sacred.

Yata-no Mushi Okuri

Insects, mushi, are the bane of rice fields in summer, and the village of Sobue-cho still preserves an eight-century-old mushi okuri ritual to banish them. A rice-straw effigy of a mounted horseman is dubbed Sanemori-san for the ancient warrior Heike Sanemori who was captured by Genji because he stumbled on rice stubble, and whose spirit in grudge tranformed itself into an insect. Paraded by torchlight through the fields, the effigy is finally burned, along with the insects drawn to the flames.

Mizudome-no Mai

Gonsho-ji's Stop-the-Rain Festival has been passed down from the 15th century when it was first held in supplication to the dragon god to bring torrential rains to an end. Here the role-playing "dragon god" blowing a conch shell hora-gai, is wrapped in a straw snake, for its traditional association with water. As he is rolled and dragged around the grounds, onlookers splash him with more and more water to pay their respects, until finally they symbolically decide, "No more!"

Matsuri - Nagoshi
Chinowa Kuguri

A procession of priests pass through a ring of chigaya, a river grass whose vivid green color and fragrance act as purifiers. On this day, or another in latter June, many parishioners will also make this ritual summer passage.

Minazuki-no Ooharai

Shinto purification by hito-gata utilizes a human-shaped paper doll which a worshiper rubs over the body and blows breath upon to transfer to it any illness or impurity. It is then inscribed with name and age and returned to the shrine with a small money offering. At Iwashimizu Hachiman Shrine, priests bundle these dolls together and place them in small rush boats to be set adrift in the river, thereby symbolically casting away any negative influences.

Yatori-no Shinji

On the last night of summer, in early August by traditional reckoning, Shimogamo Shrine celebrates the community's safe passage through that perilous hot season with Nagoshi Shinji rites. Fifty sacred arrow-like talismans, yatori-no ikushi, are set in the middle of Mitarashi Pond on shrine grounds. As the priests cast away parishioners' purifying hito-gata, young men dressed in loincloths rush into the water to claim one of the talismans, and with it the promise of good fortune, health and longevity.

Matsuri - Seirei
Chankoko Odori

On Japan's southern islands O-Bon retains an exotic flavor, almost unchanged for centuries. In Tamanoura in the Goto Islands, grass-skirted musicians parade through the village, pausing to dance at the grave of the local medieval lord, as well as at the homes of those who have lost a family member during the past year. The ancient rite adopted from China is named for the chan sound of finger cymbals and the ko-ko of drumming with which the spirits of ancestors are welcomed.

Shaara-bune

The people of Nishinoshima construct great straw "spirit ships" with a coiled prow ornament representing an elephant trunk, one of Buddhism's symbols. Kids prepare thousands of little paper prayer flags which they carry around from house to house to be inscribed to Buddha. In return for their efforts, they are given sweet treats, particularly at the homes memorializing the first Bon after a death. These so-called tsuzuki-bata are strung together and suspended to simulate sails.

Art & Culture

2009-02-24T09:57:00.000-08:00

All over Japan summer sets the stage for annual traditions of spectacle and ceremony. This season's matsuri (festivals) beseech the gods to stave off illness and insect scourges, ensure a bountiful harvest, and provide safe passage for spirits of ancestors returning home.

The Japanese celebrate this joyous supplication with dazzling decorations, float-filled processions, glowing paper lanterns, bursts of fireworks, music and drumbeat, costumes and sometimes carnival atmosphere. Join Kateigaho International on a pictorial tour of 15 summer spectaculars.

From one end of the archipelago to the other, festivals fill the calendar of summer-time Japan. Originally observances of the indigenous Shinto faith, matsuri evolved through the ages to include certain seasonal rites of Chinese Buddhist origin as well. These ancient celebrations continue to hold an honored and beloved place in contemporary Japanese life.

The Shinto deities are called kami, divine forces of the unseen world. In a mutually beneficial relationship, gods serve the people and the people serve the gods, giving them their due at the proper time and place and in ancient, prescribed ways. Matsuri are the culmination of this worship, providing people opportunities to offer the gods their prayers, gifts, reverence, and joy.

When Slovenian photographer Gorazd Vilhar first arrived in Japan in 1985, he was immediately attracted to the visual power of matsuri. Having grown up in a family of artists and steeped himself academically in art history, Vilhar is passionate about color, form, and detail. In fact, it is his boundless fascination with the aesthetic richness and iconic symbolism in traditional Japanese culture that has compelled him to remain here through the years.

Vilhar was delighted to discover that the genial atmosphere of festivals offers a welcome opportunity for closer contact with the customarily reserved Japanese. Perhaps emboldened by the celebratory spirit, communal goodwill, and some sanctified sake too, people suddenly become more sociable, less restrained. Matsuri are not secret rites for true believers or initiates only, but celebrations for all who care to attend.

Foreign visitors are unquestionably welcome, and their sincere interest in the proceedings is appreciated and enjoyed.

Though many countries have festival customs, Vilhar believes Japan's exceed them all. Not only are they far more numerous and varied here, but the ancient practices are also extremely well preserved. Considerable attention is devoted to the ritual attire and accouterments. The finest materials and workmanship are essential. Details receive painstaking care and enormous investments of money and time, clearly reflecting Japan's affluence and renowned dedication to quality.

The matsuri is many things to the Japanese people: an opportunity for communion with their gods and ancestral spirits; an avowal of their common past reaching far back into mythical times; a celebration of nature and renewal with the cycle of the seasons; and, not least of all, an excuse for exuberant merrymaking with family and neighbors, thereby reaffirming communal bonds and providing welcome relief from the work and routine of daily life. In the past, when life was difficult for most, well-being seemed wholly at the mercy of the kami. Yet even today, the sense of protection and security they offer helps explain their appeal.

For visitors to Japan, festivals can offer a window into traditional culture, providing unforgettable moments and memories. With their roots in the distant past, matsuri embody the continuum of form and heritage upon which Japan was built and provide considerable insight into a society striving to hold on to its identity in a fast-changing world.

The Varied Festivals of Japan

2009-02-24T09:39:00.000-08:00

If you're looking to take a holiday in Asia, Japan is an excellent choice. It's a land of many contrasts with ultra modern lifestyles juxtaposed against ancient traditions, and rural communities set against sprawling metropolises. A single holiday in Japan can take in many conflicting aspects of life in the country.

If you're looking to absorb the culture, or simply to find some outstanding entertainment for your stay, you could do a lot worse than timing your visit to coincide with one of the many popular festivals that the country is host to. Here are some of the more memorable ones :

Sapporo Snow Festival

The Sapporo Snow Festival will be entering its 60th year in February 2009, and you can expect the event to have an extra special feel to go along with its landmark year. The festival, based in Sapporo the capital of Hokkaido takes place over a week and includes the construction of hundreds of snow statues and ice sculptures throughout the town. Each year you can expect around 400 immaculately sculpted ice structures displaying everything from instantly recognisable landmarks to famous celebrities. If you're planning a winter holiday in Japan, then it's well worth joining the 2,000,000 people expected to attend this legendary festival.

Nagasaki Kunchi Festival

If you're taking your holiday in Japan in Autumn, the Nagasaki Kunchi festival is a must. Started in the 16th century to celebrate the harvests, the festival has now grown to become one of the most popular in Japan. Visitors to the country will be able to see traditional dancing, huge floats decorated like river barges or Chinese boats and the legendary 'dragon dance'. To give you an idea over how well planned the whole thing is, preparations for the annual festival begin as early as June 1st.

Kyoto Gion Matsuri Festival

The Gion Festival is another famous one, this time held annually in Kyoto. Unlike the previous entries, this one is on for the entire month of July, but the legendary parade (Yamaboko Junko) is worth being there for on the 17th. Those wanting to get an insight into how Kyoto residents live will also want to visit at this time, as the customary Byobo Matsuri (folding screen festival) means that many residents will open their homes for others to visit. An unparalleled opportunity to get off the tourist trail and see how people live on your holiday in Asia.

Nebuta Matsuri Festival

The largest festival in the Tohoku region is the most popular 'nebuta' event in the country with tourists, and that should be enough to convince you to visit on your holiday in Asia. Nebuta festivals involve the float of brave warrior figures carried around the city, accompanied by dancers moving in time to the famous Rassera chant. It has an atmosphere like no other, and is definitely worth seeing.

Sanja Matsuri Festival

Although Sanja Matsuri is celebrated nationwide, Tokyo is without doubt the place to be for it. The main festivities take place at the Sensoji Shrine on the third weekend of May and some 2 million people come to enjoy the huge parades, traditional music and dancing. Those who dislike crowds need not apply, but it is an unusual experience that everyone with an interest in Japanese culture should try.

Takayama Matsuri Festival

One of Japan's most popular festivals, the Takayma Matsuri festivities take place both in Spring and Autumn. Both festivals welcome the changing seasons and involve colourful floats moving through the Takayama streets and huge crowds. The Autumn version is on the 9th and 10th October, while the Spring version is held on April 14th-15th. Accommodation can be hard to come by, but tourists looking to see it should be able to find something in the neighbouring towns of Furukawa and Gero Onsen.

Fuji Rock Festival

It may not be a traditional cultural experience like the others, but if your idea of a good music festival is a muddy field in England, Fuji Rock may just change your expectations completely. Hosted at the Naeba Ski Resort (it was moved from Fuji in 1997, but retained the name), it is the cleanest mainstream music festival you'll likely ever see. Alongside quality food and drink, the acts are impressive too past years have attracted the like of The Cure, The Chemical Brothers, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Beck and The Foo Fighters.

Whether you're interested in music, arts or just absorbing the country's history and culture, there is a Japanese festival for you. By timing your luxury holiday in Japan to coincide with one of these festivals, you're guaranteeing yourself memories that will last a lifetime.

Things to do and Food to Eat in Fukuoka

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Fukuoka isn't that small of a place. Actual numbers bring the population to about the 5 million mark, with the city having roughly 1.3 million people. With that amount of people around, you know there has got to be something to do. On any day of the week if you look you will be able to find something that interests you. There are often festivals in one area or another in Fukuoka city. With a little help from a friend or the domestic foreigner magazines and information centers you will be able to find out where the festivals are being held.

The center of Fukuoka city will have to be Tenjin (though others may argue it to be Hakata). It is the shoppers' haven of the prefecture. Feel you need to do a little shopping for some nice named brands from Italy or France? head on over to Tenjin. Want to blow off some steam and hit a bar (including foreigner bars)? Tenjin is the place to be. Want to meet some new friends? Rainbow Plaza in... you guessed it, Tenjin, is the place to do just that.

Right next door to Tenjin is Nakasu. Nakasu hosts nightlife entertainment but tends to cater to the more affluent individual. However, Nakasu also has a huge shopping complex named Canal City which has so many shops that you wouldn't be able to count them all. The complex holds many restaurants, two hotels, a large cinema and in the center of Canal City is an area called Sun Plaza where it is common to find street performers doing their acts.

Of course Tenjin and Nakasu aren't the only place you can have fun. I live about 10 minutes away from Tenjin by subway in a town called Nishijin and I can do nearly as many things here as I can in Tenjin. Bowling, swimming, soccer, billiards, game centers, and even a movie theater are just a few of the things Nishijin and the nearby areas have to offer.

Yahoo Dome (formerly Fukuoka Dome) is located in Momochi which boarders the sea. Yahoo Dome is home to the Fukuoka Softbank Hawks. The Hawks are a strong baseball team, beloved by the city and its residents. In fact, there are only two teams in Japan's professional baseball league who attract more than one million fans to their home games per year, and the Hawks are one of them. When the Hawks don't have a home game you can sometimes find other activities occurring in the Dome. Yahoo Dome hosts various flea markets and concerts throughout the year.

Food, food, food!

As far as I'm concerned, Fukuoka has the best food to offer in all of Japan (though I hear food in Sapporo is quite good). Fukuoka has its own well known dishes and of course the chefs here are well capable of recreating dishes found throughout the world.

Yatai When night begins to fall on Fukuoka city you may suddenly notice many little street vendors (usually operating out of their vans) popping up all over the sidewalks. These vendors serve a variety of foods ranging from ramen to yakiniku to tempura. Yatais themselves are really a site to see.

Hard Rock Cafe Fukuoka On the occasions when I miss American and Mexican food, I always have the option to head on over to Hard Rock Cafe right next door to Fukuoka dome in Momochi. Momochi is adjacent to Nishijin so indeed I am in luck. Hard Rock Cafe Fukuoka boasts the largest restaurant of its kind in Japan. The food is fantastic and of course the atmosphere is like all other Hard Rock Cafes out there. The staff is very friendly and since I frequent their establishment often I am treated extremely well with occasional benefits.

Izakaya Though not only found in Fukuoka, Izakaya restaurants deserve a notable mention. Izakayas offer a wide variety of food and more importantly drinks at a low price. University students as well as business men can often be found in these restaurants chatting with colleagues and drinking up a storm. All Izakayas offer a different ambiance, and with some searching you will be able to find one that suits you.

Famous Fukuoka food

Fukuoka ramen Have you ever had that cup O ramen or that freeze dried packaged ramen? bah! throw that out and try some "Tonkatsu ramen" (pork ramen) famous in Fukuoka and well know throughout all of Japan. First time I tried it I was instantly hooked and to this day try and eat it once every week or so.

Mentaiko Another famous food which Fukuoka is renowned for is mentaiko (very tiny fish eggs). To some people mentaiko may not seem very appetizing but please don't knock it till you try it. Mentaiko spaghetti, as an example, is a delicious treat around these parts. And there are of course many other recipes which have use for mentaiko.

Transportation

Unlike the nickname given to New York, Fukuoka does tend to get a little tired at night but usually not until quite late especially on weekends. One of the reasons for this in my humble opinion is the transportation shutdown at around midnight. That's right, the subway, train, and bus system all but stops once you hit the AM. Which leaves the weary and, more often than not, drunk to either take a taxi home, walk, or I have even heard the "I will just stay up until the subway starts again at 6:00 before I go home" line used by those who just aren't finished partying when its time for the transportation system's last call. This isn't just a Fukuoka special, for the shutdown happens throughout the whole of Japan.

Though the transportation system does shutdown at perhaps inconvenient times, it is a wonderful system. Perfectly clean trains, buses and subways (which are amazingly quiet) are the consequence of the shutdown for they are all cleaned during the wee hours of the morning.

Location

Fukuoka is found on the southernmost island of the four main islands in Japan. The name of the island is Kyushu. Fukuoka happens to be closer to Seoul, South Korea than it is to Tokyo. Fukuoka prefecture is located on the northern tip of Kyushu.

Shopaholics

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Japan is one of the most treasured places for the visitors. It consists of four main islands and several small ones, which in combination make the image of the sea horse. The country is also known as land of rising sun. Most of the islands of Japan are mountainous and some are volcanic. However, it offers a mild and soothing predominantly moderate temperature. Any visitor can enjoy the place with all pleasures and adventures. The experience of shopping in the markets of Japan is also pleasant.

The shopper can choose the products of his choice at the competitive rates. And if you want to do the shopping at the cheap rates then prefer to visit the near by market. It offers the used products like clothes, electrical appliances, books, toys, accessories, potteries and many more. The Japanese shopping service has a complete schedule to have these types of markets organized. There are some associations made by the people who take control of each schedule of the flea market in Japan. You can get the products of great use and quality in these markets at the cheap prices. These flea markets are usually arranged in parks, department stores, shrines, parking lots and temples etc. Flea markets are very popular among the young people who do not have good source of income.

The Japanese shopping services offers a wide range of products of good quality at discounted rates. Apart from these flea markets, Japan has great shopping malls which attract the shoppers from all over the world. Japan is well known in the world for its electronic gadgets and technology. These malls have the collection of all types of products under a single roof. You can shop for Japanese clothing, electric gadgets, appliances, shoes, books, accessories and many more at the discounted prices from one stop shop. These malls give you the luxurious experience of shopping with complete convenience. If you get tired while shopping, they also have the facility of restaurants and eating corners. The malls provide you the one stop shop for all the well known brands of the industry and products of all categories. All these things in combination give the shopper a relaxed and comfortable shopping facility.

Apart from cheap flea market and classy branded shopping from malls, the Japanese markets also have department stores for all the products. There are some specific local markets which are popular for selling a category of products such as Akihabara has a rich market for electrical items; It is also known as the Japan’s electric town. Aoyama is the center for traditional crafts of Japan, and eatables like fish, vegetables, fruits etc can be purchased at cheap cost from the Ueno Ameyoko markets. The Japanese shopping service gives you the worthwhile experience of shopping in Japan.

How to Behave Respectfully in Japan

2009-02-24T08:47:00.000-08:00

In my capacity as the UK Director of Operations for One World Tours Limited, I am often asked all kinds of travel questions. I personally believe that when visiting a different country that you should be respectful of your hosts beliefs and customs. So with that in mind I have put together some useful tips and basic rules that should be observed when visiting Japan.

By far the best and most efficient way to travel is by train using the Japan Rail Travel Pass for foreigners. You will need to buy an exchange order before entering Japan as you can not buy it when you are there and travel agencies in your area will be able to tell you where you can get hold of one. You have to be eligible for the pass so if you are visiting Japan for temporary sightseeing or are a Japanese national who lives permanently in a foreign country. On arrival in Japan go to a Japan Rail Pass exchange office or a Travel Service Center which are located in major JR stations or airports. You will need to show your passport and the exchange order and tell them the day you want to start your travels. This pass will enable to use Japan Rail Travel, JR ferries, and JR buses. By purchasing a green type Japanese Rail Pass it will enable you to use the green cars (first class) without additional charges.

The Japanese are very precise when it comes to common manners and I personally believe that as a foreigner it is important to be familiar with some of the basic rules.

When visiting a shrine or temple it is common sense that you should behave respectfully. This can be observed by making a short prayer in front a sacred object. You can also show respect by so by throwing a coin into the offering box, followed by a short prayer. In some temples you can purchase a bundle of incense which you can burn. If you have an injury or medical problem it is believed that if you fan the smoke towards the injury that there is great healing properties in this. Some temples may expect you to remove your shoes which you can leave at the entrance on the shelves provided or take them with you. When visiting a shrine you are expected to be in good health to avoid bringing in any impurities. So before entering a shrine you are expected to cleanse both hands with the fresh water provided at the purification fountain. People will also rinse out their mouths with the fresh water, spitting it out by the fountain. This is not compulsory however.
You will be permitted to take photographs in the temple grounds but forbidden indoors there will be signs to let you know what is permitted.

Make sure that you have tissues when visiting a public toilet as there is not always toilet roll or hand drying facilities. There are western toilets and Japanese toilets in most places and wheelchair toilets were always in stations and temple areas.

The Japanese greet each other by bowing but since they do not expect foreigners to know proper Japanese bowing rules so a nod of the head is usually enough.

Older men sometimes use it on their face in working class establishments, but they are considered rude for doing so. Also, refrain from wiping your nose on it. Here are a few table rules for you to be aware of when dining out. You will receive a hot towel at the start of a meal which can only be used for your hands as it is considered bad manners to use it on your face. Blowing your nose in public is also considered bad manners especially if at the dining table. The Japanese will consider an empty plate good manners but burping is not. When you have finished your meal try to remember to place all your dishes as they were at the start of the meal. Remembering to replace the lid of dishes and replacing your chopsticks on the chopstick holder. Speaking of chopsticks there are a whole lot of rules on how to use the effectively. I have narrowed them down to the basics here. Do not stick chopsticks into your food, especially rice nor pass food with them directly to somebody else's chopsticks. Do not use the chopsticks to spear food with. Spoons are sometimes used to eat Japanese dishes that are difficult to eat with chopsticks and knives and forks are only used for Western food.

5 What to take finally, here are a few things you may or nay not have thought of. Electric. If you need to bring any appliances from your country, make sure to bring a converter or plug. American appliances can be used in Japan without a converter although they will have less power. You will need a two-pronged plug and you will be able to buy converters and plugs in the airports. Better still buy one before you travel.

It is advisable to look for Citibank ATM's when attempting to obtain money as most ATM's in Japan do not accept international visa cards, etc. in their machines due to the fact that the magnetic strip on the back is much thinner than ours. The yen is the Japanese currency unit. A MasterCard or VISA card can be used in department stores, hotels, and restaurants in major cities. If, however you are traveling the countryside of Japan, you might find that credit cards/traveler's checks may not be accepted. While it is a good idea to carry Japanese currency with you, make sure that you remain alert in areas where pick-pockets may be rife such as crowded trains etc.

Last but by no means least to avoid any embarrassing moments when following the Japanese tradition of removing your shoes, make sure that your socks or tights have not got holes in them!

Have great holiday or vacation in Japan

Top Ten things to do in Japan

2009-02-24T08:34:00.000-08:00

Japan is one of the countries that have the best of both worlds. It's advanced in terms of technology, and yet, it has been able to retain its greatest heritage its culture. Indeed, Japan has done an amazing feat as it can manage to stay as one of the world's leading economic powers while still being able to hold on to the roots of its past. And, as such, it has become one of the most interesting places to visit a rich blend of history and technology.

1. Watch the cherry blossoms fall

There's no symbol of Japan more famous than the beautiful Cherry Blossoms. Indeed, the cherry blossom, with beauty so intense but so fleeting, is something that you have got to see if you ever visit Japan. They bloom during the months of April and May, and by the end of these months, they fall to the ground like a dreamy curtain of pink and white. There's no other sight quite like it.

2. Release your inner child

Japan is one of the few countries in the world with its own Disney Land. And, of course, because the Japanese are sticklers for culture, their Disney Land is built with a distinctly Japanese influence. It sets it apart from all other such theme parks in the world.

3. Indulge the shopaholic in you

Tokoyo is one of the world's biggest shopping capitals. Ginza is a huge market where you can find anything you need, from the latest gadgets and gizmos to the latest manga release of your favorite anime series. In the morning, you can even see it transformed into the world's largest fish market. Indeed, Ginza is one place that you'd be sorry to miss.

4. Sip some tea

Essentially, the Japanese are people who prefer everything to be clean and serene, that's why they love such peaceful activities as drinking, or rather, sipping tea. While you're in Japan, you should at least experience authentic Japanese tea. Or better yet, you can participate in the Japanese Tea Ceremony, a festival held both in Kyoto and Tokyo.

5. Play in the snow

In some parts of the year, particularly in winter, Japan gets coated in a blanket of pristine white snow. During this time of the year, it would do you well to have some fun in Japan's steep ski slopes. You can even partake in the Snow Festival where ice parties take place for a whole seven days and where you can see beautiful ice sculptures.

6. Relax in the hot springs

And, if your muscles need to loosen up a bit, why don't you give yourself a treat by visiting one of the many hot springs. These can be found in most parts of Japan, especially in Okinawa. The relaxing steam is sure to make you feel like you've shed a very heavy load.

7. Become a samurai

Japan is quite famous for its noble Samurai who follow the Bushido code, and the swords or their 'katana,' though light and flexible, are sharp and deadly. You can buy your own katana for your collection's sake, but mind you, a lot of effort and time are put into these swords, so they won't be cheap. Some sellers are even picky as to who they're going to sell their swords to - that's how special these deadly weapons are.

8. Watch giants clash

A sport like no other, sumo wrestling is one of the most interesting things that you will see in Japan. Sumo Wrestling is Japan's national sport, and it draws large crowds from all over. You can even place your bets to make watching it more exciting.

9. Do some sightseeing

There are tons of things to see in Japan. It is, after all, rich in architecture and landscapes. You can take pictures of the famous Imperial Palace if you're into architecture or the famous Mt. Fuji if you're into nature.

10. Bask in the Nightlife

And, of course, what better way to end the day than to experience Tokyo's nightlife. There's no other place in the world where 'glow-in-the-dark' is a fashion statement. Indeed, a great place to let loose and just be yourself.

Plan Your Visit According to Weather in Japan

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Due to different geographical conditions and topographical position, the climate of one country varies from the other. Similarly, climate and weather in Japan is entirely different from that of other countries. It enjoys mild and temperate climate except subtropical areas of Okinawa and Hokkaido to the north. Japan has four distinct seasons- winter, summer, spring and autumn. Annually these seasons can be divided as follows :

Spring, experienced during the month of March, April and May
Summers, in the month of June, July and August
Autumn, in the month of September, October and November
Winters, in the month of December, January and February

Lot of snow can easily be seen on the side of Sea of Japan in winters, with dryness on Pacific Ocean side whereas summers are hot and humid. Though rainy season in Japan last for about 40 days, during the month of June and July, but Japan Information network.

Suggest that Japan usually have high amount of rainfall and typhoon season is experienced during the months of August to October. The condition generally become humid and rainy in rainy season, so it is always advisable to enquire about the climate in Japan, before actually visiting a place.

People traveling to Japan in summer should visit Hokkaido in the North, as it is too hot on Honshu and other islands. These places welcomes rainy season, as it bring relief to them. The mountain of Tohoku or Chubu is generally seen filled by the people of Tokyo on weekends, as it bring relief from relentless heat. During typhoon
season in the month of august and early September, high pressure system is formed in the tropical areas of the western Pacific Ocean, thus, striking southern region of Japan and bringing strong winds and torrential rains.

A sort of storm in Japan’s climate is relieved by the arrival of autumn that brings a drop in temperature and drier conditions. Thus, this time of October and November in addition to spring is considered a good time to travel Japan to celebrate clearer and warmer days.

A cold temperature of winters is considered a pleasant time, as days are clear with occasional rains or snow. One can find numerous of tourists during this season enjoying famous hot bath of the country. Hot bath amid the snow covered hills and gently falling snow is an exciting experience.

Winter sports such as snow boarding and skiing can be best enjoyed in the northern areas of Honshu Island such as Hakuba and Nagano. So, plan and have a trip to Japan as per your interest. Enjoy wonderful cherry blossoms and colorful autumn foliage on your visit to Japan.

Taking a Tour at Central Japan

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Japan is a wonderful country where tourists and travelers do not hesitate to visit. Central Japan has majestic northern ranges and because of the expanded expressway system, the Nagoya residents do not have worries on traveling. Central Japan has indeed transformed into a more accessible place and it has turned into a haven of all sorts. The huge mountains and hot springs in central Japan are worth visiting. Attractive lakes such as Taneike is near the main road and just ahead of it, the Ohashi trailhead can be seen.

If you wish to hike the mountain ranges of central Japan, you should be ready and take on the adventure with enough determination. The Mie prefecture in central Japan is a wonderful place to be. This is where the Iseya Inn is located. It was originally built for the Emperor of central Japan and it is a wooden building consisting of three-stories. It can shelter seven hundred people and it has large entrances on the left and right wing. If you want to get to central Japan in less than an hour, you should be familiar with the routes.

If you are looking for a place to hike, then you can go to Hachijo-jima, which is located in the southern part in the Izu Island. It is three hundred kilometers away from Tokyo. Many tourists, who want to have a stress-free travel, visit it. There are places in central Japan, which is a good place for diving. The waters near Hachijo-jima are crystal-clear and the boats are few enough so you could enjoy the diving experience. Look for an English-speaking diving master in central Japan to make sure that you would be safe. As a tourist, you are not familiar with all the diving routes and spots in central Japan that is why you should get a diving expert to guide you. The amazing rock formations underneath central Japan will surely be a good diving spot, so why not try it? You will surely enjoy the sight of sea turtles, hammerhead sharks and the variety of marine life out there. There are also many tourist spots in the parts of Nagoya, Aichi and Mei.

Nazumado is one of the most famous scuba spots in central Japan. Sokodo is a black sand beach, which is a good place to dive, or snorkel in. If you have not seen a pufferfish before, this is the place to see those spiky black urchins. Central Japan also has soothing onsens if you are yearning for those hot springs.

After all the hiking and diving, it is time that you rest your muscles for a while. You can choose from a variety of onsen shops to go and check out the Uramigataki, which has a rushing waterfall and a safari-like atmosphere in it. Central Japan is also full of fantastic restaurants to satisfy your appetite. Central Japan also has a wide variety of hotels and accommodations for tourists and travelers. There is the famous Tokyo Hotel but if you are on a tight budget, you can choose to stay at other hotels. For those who are going to stay for months, an apartment would be more economical.

Experience the Far East

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If you're determined to explore Asia but unsure which country to visit, you might want to set your sites on Far East Asia and travel to Japan. Here is some general but useful information that is good to know when you travel Japan. It will help you get a better understanding of Japan before your trip and allow you to experience Japan more comfortably.

About the Country

Japan consists of four main islands and several smaller ones. Together the islands take the shape of a sea horse and occupy an area of 377,435 square kms. Tokyo, the capital city, is very modern and bustling with activity, so when you travel to Japan, be ready for a few crowds. The landscape of Japan, away from the big cities, is mountainous with spectacular scenery; some of the mountains are volcanic. Mt. Fuji is the tallest mountain in Japan, and is known for its symmetrical slopes.

About the Climate

When you travel to Japan, it's important to know the country's seasons and when they occur during the year. The islands of Japan lie in the temperate and at the northeastern end of the monsoon area. The climate is generally mild, although it varies considerably from place to place when you travel Japan. Summer, which is warm and mild, begins around the middle of July following a rainy season that usually lasts for a month. Except in northern Japan the winter is mild with many sunny days. Spring and autumn are the best seasons of the year with balmy days and bright sunshine.

About the People

Before you depart to travel Japan, it's a good idea to get a sense of the people and their culture. Japan is one of the most densely populated nations in the world, with some 330 persons per square kilometer (almost 860 persons per sq. mi.). The Japanese are a Mongoloid people, closely related to the major groups of East Asia. However,
some evidence also exists of a mixture with Malayan and Caucasoid strains. About 750,000 Koreans and much smaller groups of Chinese and Caucasians reside in Japan.

Religious Beliefs

When you travel Japan, you will be exposed to a new world of religious and personal beliefs. Buddhism is important in Japan's religious life and has strongly influenced fine arts, social institutions, and philosophy. Most Japanese consider themselves members of one of the major Buddhist sects.

Shintoism is an indigenous religion founded on myths, legends, and ritual practices of the early Japanese. Neither

Buddhism nor Shintoism is an exclusive religion. Most Japanese observe both Buddhist and Shinto rituals: the former for funerals and the latter for births, marriages, and other occasions. Confucianism, primarily an ethical system, profoundly influences Japanese thought as well.

About 1.3 million people in Japan are Christians, of whom 60% are Protestant and 40% Roman Catholic.

Japan is an exotic and beautiful travel destination that is worth traveling to. Now you can travel to Japan for less with the lowest discount airfare on cFares. The number one wholesale travel site for the shrewd international traveler.

Travel Japan and Enjoy it

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Looking for a place to go to? Why not travel Japan and explore this amazing country? Tourists have frequented this country because it is a place full of beautiful sceneries and tourist spots. Moreover, travel Japan is a great adventure where you get to meet the nice and wonderful people there. If you decide to travel Japan, you are sure to have an experience you will never forget. Before anything else, you should know that travel Japan might be quite expensive but there are tourist packages that are really affordable.

Although the cost of living in Japan is quite pricey, it is really worth it. If you like to travel Japan in an economical way, you can use the Japan Rail Pass to save on transportation costs. One of the most remarkable things in Japan is food and travel. As you observe, Japan is an island that is why it is abundant in seafood. Most of the time, when you hear the word travel Japan, the thing that comes into your mind is sushi and Mt. Fuji. Sushi is raw fish and Mt. Fuji is one of the beautiful sceneries to watch for in Japan. Aside from that, your travel Japan would not be complete if you do not try the hot bath. However, it is not the ordinary bath that you see in other countries. The “onsen” or Japanese hot bath is a refreshing and relaxing way of bathing. There are many hot springs in Nagano and Mei so you are sure to have a wonderful experience.

When you decide to travel Japan, you will think about the place to stay. Houses in Japan are quite expensive so it is best for tourists to stay at a camp site or a fancy hotel. If you are about to travel Japan and plan to stay for months, then you can choose to stay at an apartment that is accessible to the city or the capital. In that way, you would not worry about getting lost when you are to travel Japan.

For any traveler there is so much to see and experience in Japan. In Kyoto and Nara, the temples and shrines are abundant. The place has that traditional appeal and atmosphere to it. But if you want to travel Japan for its modern appeal, then Tokyo and Osaka is the place to be. You will sure to have a pleasurable sightseeing. So when is the best time to travel Japan? Most people go there on spring and autumn because in the months from June to August, the rains are heavy and the temperature is quite high. However, if you are a ski buff, then travel Japan on winter. Thinking about how to get to Japan? The Tokyo Narita airport is the center for travelers who just got to Japan. Going around the place requires a map, if you are not familiar with the places. The railway stations are safe and accessible to travelers. In addition, watch out for the bullet train when you decide to travel Japan.

You can travel Japan at very high speeds with the help of the bullet trains which has speeds up to 300 km/h. if you are going to stay at Japan for many months, it is best if you get a Japan Rail Pass for that unlimited travels while in the country. If you are to travel Japan, you should not miss seeing the Tokyo National Museum. You can see the sculptures and the rich history of the country.

The Forbidden City

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Beijing, China

The Forbidden City, at the center of the ancient city of Beijing, was home to 24 emperors during the Ming and Qing dynasties. Today, the Forbidden City is a public museum and World Heritage site, attracting millions of tourists from around the world.

In this guide, we open the doors of the Forbidden City and tour inside this beautiful palace with its long 500 year history. The guide includes over 500 photographs of the Forbidden City and describes in detail all the main places of interest. It also presents a useful Forbidden City map.

In the early 1400s, the third Ming Emperor, YongLe, moved the capital of China to Beijing. In 1406, he began construction of a new 'Forbidden City' that would include the imperial palace complex.

The Forbidden City, located at the exact center of the ancient city of Beijing, was the home and center of power for 24 emperors during the mid to latter Ming and Qing dynasties.

Today, the Forbidden City is a public museum, drawing the attention of millions of travellers and tourists from around the world. At the Forbidden City you can see the traditional architecture up close and marvel at the treasures of the imperial family and its court.

Now officially renamed as the 'Palace Museum' ('GuGong' in chinese, meaning simply 'old palace'), the extensive grounds of the Forbidden City cover 720,000 square meters (74 hectares). There are 800 buildings that have in total about 9,000 rooms. The Forbidden City is the world's largest palace complex.

Indeed, the Forbidden City is listed by UNESCO as the largest collection of preserved ancient wooden structures in the world, and was declared a World Heritage Site in 1987.

The Forbidden City is located directly to the north of Tian'AnMen Square and is accessible from the square via Tian'AnMen Gate.

Although no longer occupied by royalty, the Forbidden City remains a symbol of sovereignty and the image of its entrance gate appears on the seal of the People's Republic of China.

The Forbidden City has become one of the most popular tourist attractions in the world. Visitors can see the traditional palace architecture, enjoy the treasures kept in the palace, and learn of the legends and anecdotes about the imperial family and the court.

The chinese government have invested a lot of time and money in the the Forbidden City and it is now a fantastic place to wander and dream of times gone by. White marble, walls of terra-cotta, roofs of glazed golden tiles, and woodwork finished with vermillion paint, lacquer and gilding unite to create an effect of outstanding beauty.

Recently, the Forbidden City has been under a major renovation that has limited visitors to a few areas. However, it remains open and the great majority of places are accessible.

Wonder of the World

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The Great Wall of China, one of the greatest wonders of the world, was enlisted in the World Heritage by UNESCO in 1987. Just like a gigantic dragon, the Great Wall winds up and down across deserts, grasslands, mountains and plateaus, stretching approximately 6,700 kilometers (4,163 miles) from east to west of China. With a history of more than 2000 years, some of the sections of the great wall are now in ruins or even entirely disappeared. However, it is still one of the most appealing attractions all around the world owing to its architectural grandeur and historical significance.

History

Excitement abounds in the origin, vicissitude and nature of the great wall of the Qin, Han, and Ming dynasties. The Great Wall was originally built in the Spring, Autumn, and Warring States Periods as a defensive fortification by the three states: Yan, Zhao and Qin. The Great Wall went through constant extensions and repairs in later dynasties. In fact, it began as independent walls for different states when it was first built, and did not become the "Great" wall until the Qin Dynasty. Emperor Qin Shihuang succeeded in his effort to have the walls joined together to fend off the invasions from the Huns in the north after the unification of China. Since then, the Great Wall has served as a monument of the Chinese nation throughout history. A visit to the Great Wall is like a tour through the history backwards; it brings tourists great excitement in each step of the wall.

Construction

The mystery of the construction of the wall is amazing. The construction of the Great Wall, drew heavily on the local resources for construction materials, was carried out in line with the local conditions under the management of contract and responsibility system. A great army of manpower, composed of soldiers, prisoners, and local people, built the wall. The construction result demonstrates the manifestation of the wisdom and tenacity of the Chinese people.

Section

Ready to show you an incredible diversity of scenery and ethnic people along its way. The Great Wall as we see today was mostly built during the Ming Dynasty. It starts from Shanhaiguan Pass in the east to Jiayuguan Pass in the west traversing provinces of Liaoning, Hebei, Beijing, Tianjin, Shanxi, Inner Mongolia, Ningxia, Shaanxi and Gansu.

Protection

The China Great Wall Academy has called for greater protection of this important relic. Following a forty-five day long survey of 101 sections of the Wall in different provinces, the China Great Wall Academy reported on December 12, 2002 that the forces of nature and destruction at the hand of mankind are bringing about the gradual reduction of its extent with the result that less than 30% remains in good condition. The Academy has called for greater protection of this important relic.

Culture

Unfolding a considerable part of Chinese culture beyond the wall. The Great Wall has long been incorporated into Chinese mythology and popular symbolism. The most beautiful of several legends is about the collapse of a section of the Great Wall caused by Meng Jiangnu, who cried bitterly over the death of her husband in the construction of the Great Wall. This legend has been spread widely through textbooks, folk songs and traditional operas. It is well-known in China.

Traveling

Make a trip to at least one section of the Great Wall should be a must for your China Trip. Elaborate tour plans make travel comfortable, memorable, enjoyable and informative. See details of our Memorable Highlights Tours.

If you prefer to see the wall in a relatively natural state, visit Simatai, 110km north-east of Beijing. This part of the Wall is the best choice, for it is still in its original state without being developed into a popular tourist attraction due to its distance and little public transportation options.

Music and Dance is the best Performed

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As early as the first century B.C., more than 80 different kinds of musical instruments were already in use. Among the historical finds of these instruments in Hubei in 1978 was a musical stand of 64 bronze bells. The bells have considerable variation in pitch, and they were made more than 2,400 years ago. They can produce a range of five octaves, and that itself is ample proof of the extraordinary knowledge of music in ancient China.

At present there are a great many song and dance troupes, opera companies, symphony orchestras, choirs and traditional instruments orchestras. The musicians are trained mainly in the eight conservatories of music, which have their own primary and secondary schools, in Beijing, Shanghai, Shenyang, Chengdu, Tianjing, Xi'an and Guangzhou. These institutions and their schools provide music education at different levels from the very basic to the advanced. This comprehensive system has been working well. When a graduate from the secondary music school enters a conservatory, he or she may choose courses offered by various departments such as composition, folk music, vocal music, orchestral music and the piano. The Central Conservatory of Music and Shanghai Conservatory of Music also have departments on conducting, musicology, and modern opera. Most of the young musicians who have achieved outstanding results in national and international competitions have been trained by these schools.

Traditional Chinese Opera

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Traditional Chinese opera has a history of more than 800 years. It is an art form which integrates singing, music, dialogue, acting and acrobatics. There are more than 300 different operatic forms in China. Among the local operatic forms staged nationwide are Beijing Opera, Pingju Opera, Shaoxing Opera and Henan Opera. The best-known is Beijing Opera, which has a history of more than 200 years. It originated in Beijing, then capital of Qing Dynasty.

There are different schools, styles and forms of singing in Beijing (Peking) Opera. In acting and acrobatic fighting, different roles follow different patterns, and their movements and gestures are stylized, suggestive and symbolic. For instance, the actions of opening a door, going up the stairs , rowing a boat or climbing a bill, are done purely through the dance-like movements of the actors with the help of props. String and percussion instruments also provide a distinct characteristic of Beijing Opera.

Modern Chinese drama has developed under the influence of foreign dramatic literature and conventions . In the 1910's, drama troupes were formed in the country. The most popular plays staged in the 1930's and 1940's are Thunderstorm, Sunrise, Qu Yuan and Twin Flowers.

Major Chinese Festivals

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Spring Festival
Venue: All over China

Spring Festival originated in the sacrificial ceremony held shortly after the winter solstice during the early Xia Dynasty (21st-16th century BC), when China was still in the primitive society. The ritual was designed to repay the blessings of the god and celebrate bumper harvests. Today, it has become the foremost of all traditional festivals for the Chinese people.

Right before the festival sets in, people are already busy grocery shopping, making new clothes, paying tribute to the Kitchen God and ancestors, preparing the family reunion banquet, pasting New Year couplets on gateposts or door panels, and pinning up New Year paintings on walls. During the festival, they visit each other and exchange New Year’s greetings. Firecrackers are let off to liven up the atmosphere. A lot of dining and wining takes place during the festival, and every family make and eat New Year’s cakes (made of glutinous rice flour), dumplings and sweet dumplings. There are dragon, lion, and yangge dances and lantern shows in both urban and rural areas, as merry-makers bid farewell to old year and wish for a good beginning in the new year, exorcise evil spirits and pestilence, and pray for good harvests and good luck in the new year.

During Spring Festival, many families decorate the window panes of their houses with pleasant-looking papercuts portraying Chinese opera characters, flowers, birds, insects and fish.

New Year Couplets: New Year couplets, written on strips of red paper, are a major part of the Chinese Spring Festival custom. On the lunar New Year’s Eve, families in urban and rural areas alike make it a point to grace their gate posts or door panels with couplets composed of two sentences which match each other in sound and sense to express their cherished wishes.

New Year’s Paintings: New Year’s paintings are a branch of Chinese folk art which draws inspirations from such things as bumper harvests, prosperity, landscape, flowers and birds, buffaloes, and babies. During the festival, the Chinese love to pin up a few New Year’s paintings on their living room walls to bid farewell to the old year and greet the new.

Jiaozi: Jiaozi, or dumplings, is a typical Chinese food. It is the habit of people living in north China to celebrate festivals by making and eating dumplings. On New Year’s Eve entire families would gather to chat while preparing dumplings. Afterwards they would stay up late or all night to see the old year out and the New Year in.

Lantern Festival
Venue: All over China

The Lantern Festival has its origin in the Han Dynasty. King Wen of the Western Han Dynasty officially designated the 15th day of the 1st lunar month as Lantern Festival, and during the reign of King Wu of the Han Dynasty, the Chinese began to celebrate this festival with lantern shows. During the Yongping reign of the Eastern Han Dynasty, King Ming, in an effort to promote Buddhism, ordered that lanterns be lit up in palaces and monasteries at night as tribute to the Buddha. Aristocrats and commoners alike were asked to hang lanterns at the front gates of their houses. Hence the name, Lantern Festival. The practice gradually became part of the Chinese folklore and is celebrated in pomp and pageantry. During the Song Dynasty, “yuan xiao”, a kind of dumplings made of glutinous rice flour and sweet stuffing, were invented. Such dumplings are boiled in water until they float. They are made exclusively in celebration of the Lantern Festival, which is also called “Yuanxiao Festival”.

Zigong Lantern Show
Venue: Zigong, Sichuan Province

As early as the Tang Dynasty, the people of Zigong were already putting on lantern displays during Spring Festival. The custom remains alive and kicking till this day. The municipal government of Zigong makes it a point to sponsor a traditional lantern show every year during the Spring Festival.

During the show, a “dragon” pieced together with porcelain dinner-sets, and a “peacock” fashioned out of glass drug bottles strung together, are displayed along with thousands of lanterns. The lanterns, which as a rule are marked by superb craftsmanship, are woven of thin bamboo strips and covered with colorful silk fabrics or paper; they are grouped into several hundred clusters to form a spectacular show of forms, colors, lights, movements and sounds. During the show commodities fairs and business talks are also held.

Qintong Boat Festival in Yangzhou
Venue: Qintong Town, Yangzhou, Jiangsu Province

This is a typical folklore activity. During the festival boats from nearby fishing villages converge at Qintong Town for a few days of rejoicing. Theatrical performances, dragon and lion dances, and other folk dances are staged right on board the boats. Boat races are also part of the festivity.

Spring Flower Fair
Venue: Guangzhou, Guangdong Province

During the Qianlong and Jiaqing reigns of the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911), tea sales flourished, and the demand for flowers as ingredients for the making of flower tea snowballed, thereby providing a great impetus to flower cultivation in China. During the Xianfeng and Tongzhi reigns, flower fairs emerged in some cities. During the fairs the streets were lined with booths selling such flowers as water lily and lilac, which bloom in summer; osmanthus and nandina which come out in autumn and red maple; and magnolia and winter jasmine which come into full glory in late winter. Today, all these flowers can be seen at the Guangzhou Spring Flower Fair, which takes place on New Year’s Eve. For Guangzhou residents the Flower Fair is part of Spring Festival celebrations.

Prior to the Spring Festival, farmers ship flowers into the city from suburbs, and lay them out in a number of streets. During the festival, local residents, old and young, take to the streets to see the flowers. When they return home they bring some of the flowers to decorate their houses. A journey down the flower-bedecked streets is like homecoming to nature.

Water Splashing Festival
Venue: Jinghong, Xishuangbanna Dai Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province.

Legend has it that there once lived a demon king who was wreaking havoc in Xishuangbanna by taking seven young women as his wives against their will. The women finally rose in rebellion and killed the demon king, thereby ridding the area of a scourge. However, the chopped head of the demon king kept rolling, causing fire in its trail, and the fire could be put out only when one of the women held it in her arms. Thus the seven women took turns holding the demon head once a year. When one woman’s turn was over, the local people would splash water on her, so as to rinse her of the blood and expel the evil spirits out of her; the gesture was also an expression of gratitude for the women for keeping the local people from harm’s way. With the passing of time, the demon king’s head was finally burned to ashes. Splashing water on each other, however, has gradually evolved into part of local custom.

Dragon boat races, the firing of indigenous missiles, dances to the accompaniment of the beating of drums on a pedestal shaped like an elephant’s legs, peacock dances, sightseeing, country fairs, and water-splashing festivities. During the festival pouches are tossed between unmarried men and women as tokens of love.

Hainan Int’l Coconut Festival
Venue: Hainan Province: Haikou, Wenchang County, Tongshi, and Sanya.

The coconut tree is the emblem of the Hainan Island, known also as “Coconut Island.” On April 3-8, 1992, the provincial government held the first Hainan International Coconut Festival to show what was being done in Hainan as a special economic zone. Since then the International Coconut Festival has become an annual event, during which time the island province’s coconut-associated cultural heritage and ethnic habits and customs are displayed. Business talks are also held during the festival.

Lantern display in the Coconut City, the Coconut Street, gala celebrations among ethnic Li and Miao people, international dragon boat racing, ethnic martial contest, variety shows, weddings in Li and Miao traditions, and sacrifices to ancestors.

Luoyang Peony Festival
Venue: Luoyang, Henan Province

“The peony of Luoyang is the most beautiful under heaven”, as the saying goes. The peony, the emblem flower of Luoyang, is lauded as “queen of flowers with ethereal color and celestial fragrance.” Since the Tang Dynasty no Chinese city has been able to rival Luoyang in growing peonies. Growing the peony and marveling at it has, in fact, long been a local obsession. Of the 500,000 peony shrubs in 350-odd strains that are cultivated in Luoyang, the yaohuang (Yao’s yellow peony) and weizi (Wei’s purple peony) are the “king” and “queen” of all peonies. The first Luoyang Peony Festival took place on April 15-25 in 1983; since then it has become a major annual event.

Full-length variety shows, flower watching, lantern show, exhibitions of traditional Chinese calligraphy and painting and photography, symposiums, and business talks. At the Wangcheng Park and the Botanical Garden, banquets are arranged for peony admirers, and all kinds of snacks and refreshments are served as well.

Goddess Mazu Festival
Venue: Meizhou Island in Putian, Fujian Province

Mazu was born Lin Muniang in 960 AD, or, to be exact, the 23rd of the 3rd lunar month of the 1st year of the Jianlong reign of the Song Dynasty, and died on the 9th day of the 9th lunar month at the age of 28. As a philanthropist she offered medical service for fellow islanders, and with her weather forecasting ability she saved many fishermen from the menace of typhoons. Touched by her good and moral deeds, the local people deified her as Angel of the Sea and Holy Mother who could bring blessings to them. A temple was built and dedicated to her memory on the Meizhou Island, so that islanders could offer sacrifices to her.

The 23rd day of the 3rd lunar month is the birthday of Goddess Mazu, and the 9th day of the 9th lunar month her death anniversary. On both dates the Temple of Mazu is thronged with thousands of pilgrims, many of them from Taiwan, who come to pay homage to the goddess.

Weifang Int’l Kite Festival
Venue: Weifang, Shandong Province

With a kite-making history of 600 years, Weifang is known throughout the world as one of China’s three major kite-making schools along with Beijing and Tianjin. Unmatched artisanship and diverse subject matter that draws heavily from local folk life characterize Weifang Kite. Since 1984 Weifang has been the site of an annual international kite festival, which attracts numerous visitors from every nook and cranny of the world. During the fanfare the sky of the city is swarmed with kites ingeniously designed and colorfully decorated. This is perhaps one of the reasons why Weifang has been lauded by kite fans as “capital of the world of kites.” The International Kites Federation is headquartered in Weifang.

The opening ceremony at which the first batch of kites will take off, international and domestic kite competitions, selection of the ten best kites, visit to a kite museum, folk art performances at Yangjiabu, and shopping.

Dragon Boat Festival
Venue: All over China

During the Warring States Period (475-221 BC), Qu Yuan, a patriotic poet of the state of Chu, was removed from office and sent into exile by the duke of Chu. In sorrow, Qu took a stone in his embrace and drowned himself in the Miluo River on the 5th day of the 5th lunar month. The local people wrapped glutinous rice in mugwort leaves and threw it into the river to lure the shrimps, fish and crabs away from the remains of the deceased poet. With the passing of time the practice of throwing rice into the river as a sacrifice to Qu Yuan gradually evolved into a custom.

To show their respect for the great patriotic poet, the Chinese make it a point to mark the anniversary of his death by eat ing zongzi, a pyramid-shaped dumpling made of glutinous rice wrapped in bamboo or reed leaves, and holding dragon boat races. Tourist activities are organized in various parts of the country, but the celebrations in the city of Miluo are most fascinating. The International Dragon Boat Festival held in June 10-14 annually in Yueyang, Hunan Province, is perhaps the most famous known in China. More than 20 dragon boat teams from the United States, Canada, Australia, and countries and regions in Southeast Asia attend the racing and demonstration shows every year.

Guizhou Azalea Festival
Venue: Baihuaping in Bijie Prefecture’s Aianxi County

A vast stretch of azaleas is found where Qianxi and Dafang counties in Guizhou Province’s Bijie Prefecture share the same boundary. The flowers in the Pudi Azalea Zone of Dafang County and the Jinpo Azalea Zone of Qianxi County are the most famous. There the azalea begins to bloom in March, reaches its full glory in April, and continues into May, so that for three months a year, the heavily wooded place is taken over by a riot of color and becomes a veritable natural flower garden rarely seen anywhere in this world. The Azalea Festival, which was first started in 1993, is an annual event in Guizhou.

The opening ceremony, folk art performances by the ethnic Yi, Miao and Buyi people, a lantern show in Qianxi County, bell-ringing dances, dances to the accompaniment of reed pipes, and bull and chicken fights. Tourists are welcome to attend carnivals by a bonfire and tempt their palate with local delicacies.

Qinghai Folk Song Festival
Venue: Xining, Qinghai

Hua’er refers to folk songs popular among the ethnic Hui, Dongxiang and Baoan peoples in Qinghai Province. Love is a major theme of such songs, which are characterized by sweet, soul-stirring tunes, rich and varied motifs, and an unmistakable idyllic flavor. After the 5th month according to the Chinese lunar calendar, “hua’er” festivals are held in many places in Qinghai, and local singers take this opportunity to sing their life, labor, love and ideals in a most infatuating way. The folk song festival, which takes place on the 6th day of the 6th lunar month at Lianhuashan, Xining, is so famous that it eventually became an annual weeklong event.

During the festival, tens of thousands of Hui, Dongxiang and Baoan folk singers and onlookers gather at Lianhuashan for round after round of singing. Other activities include mountaineering, theatrical performances, trade fairs, and the farewell ceremony.

Wutai Mountain Tourist Month
Venue: Taihuai Town, Wutai County, Shanxi Province

Since ancient times, the Wutai Mountain has been a site of temple fairs. With the passing of time, these temple fairs have gradually evolved into the Wutai Mountain International Tourist Month, which sets the stage for displaying the Wutai Mountain as one of China’s four major Buddhist mountain sanctuaries and its wealth of ancient sites and cultural artifacts.

Large-scale Buddhist ritualistic ceremonies, folk art activities, and a large mule and horse fair. During the month, the entire mountain is enshrouded in the mystery of a religious atmosphere, as monks from all over the country gather at Taihuai Town performing Buddhist rites to save the souls of the dead and chanting Buddhist sutras. The event gives the traveler an excellent opportunity to visit the architecture of the cluster of temples and monasteries on the Wutai Mountain, and learn something about local habits and customs.

Nadam Tourist Festival
Venue: Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region

In Mongolian the word “nadam” means “amusement and entertainment.” The Nadam Festival is a traditional occasion for Mongols to get together for a few days of festivity. In the past, herdsmen in the region gathered in summer to sacrifice to celestial beings and amuse themselves in celebration of a thriving animal husbandry. Later, the Nadam Festival has become a ten-day event at the banner or sumu level during the summer-autumn interregnum. Now the festival has acquired a new name, “Nadam Grassland Tourist Festival”.

Horse racing, archery, and wrestling; the Mani Festival, Yuan-dynasty imperial banquets, wedding in the ethnic Erdos style, sacrificial rituals at Genghis Khan’s mausoleum, tours of the Hot Spring Forest, Mongolian folklore show; and business activities.

Yunnan Yi Torch Festival
Venue: Shucun Town of the Lunan Yi Autonomous County, and the city of Chuxiong in the Chuxiong Yi Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province

According to a legend among the Yi people in Lunan, once upon a time there lived a demon king who terrorized the local people. During an uprising the local people bound torches to the horns and hind legs of a herd of goats and eliminated the demon king by lighting the torches and driving the goats into its lair. On the 24th day of the 6th lunar month the local people lit torches for an entire night’s merry-making in celebration of the victory.

Archery, horse racing, bull fights, and wrestling. Torch-holding dances around a bonfire at night.

Qingdao Int’l Beer Festival
Venue: Qingdao, Shandong Province

The Qingdao beer is renowned all over the world. The Qingdao International Beer Festival was first held in 1991, and has since become an annual event, which takes place at the Qingdao Tourist Resort.

Full-length variety shows, parades of artistic floats, fashion shows, fireworks display at the beach, sports competitions, a symposium on beer-making technology, and business talks.

Shoton Festival in Tibet
Venue: Lhasa, Tibet Autonomous Region

In the Tibetan language the word “shoton” means “yogurt banquet.” The Shoton Festival has its beginning prior to the 17th century. By Buddhist discipline, monks are confined in their monasteries for several dozen days until summer is over. The day the “confinement” is over the local people treat the monks to banquets, at which yogurt is served liberally.

“Sunning the Buddha” (giant tangkha-portraits of the Buddha are brought out of the monasteries and unfolded in the sun for public display), Tibetan opera performances, and trade fairs.

Xinjiang Grape Festival
Venue: Turpan, Xinjiang Uighur Autonomous Region

Grape cultivation in the world-famous city of Turpan dates back to more than 2000 years ago. Of the 100-odd grain strains in Turpan, the seedless white grapes, dubbed “green pearls of China,” are the most precious. The raisin and wine produced in Turpan are known for their lingering good tastes. Most of Turpan’s grapes are grown in the renowned Grape Valley, or “Pearl City in the Desert.” The Xinjiang Grape Festival was first launched in 1990 and has since become an annual event in Turpan.

Wedding in the Uygur style, mashlap (lively and humorous folk dance), nazkum (witty art performance), Koco-style songs and dances, Hami-melon competition, trade negotiations, tour of the Street of Grapes and Melons, and camel caravans reminiscent of the Silk Road more than 2,000 years ago.

Shaolin Int’l Martial Arts Festival
Venue: Zhengzhou, Henan Province

The worldwide fame of the 1,500-year-old Shaolin Temple is attributed to its consummate martial arts dating back more than a thousand years to the Tang Dynasty. During the Five Dynasties (907-960 AD), monks in the temple had already devised more than 100 styles of boxing. By the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) the Shaolin martial arts reached its zenith. The city of Dengfeng, where the temple is situated, has become a center of martial arts. In 1991 the first Zhengzhou International Martial Arts Festival was held to carry forward the heritage of Chinese martial arts and promote local tourist and economic development. The Festival is held once a year.

A good variety of Shaolin martial arts performances and contests, and exchanges between martial arts from around the world. A cruise on the Yellow River gives some idea about the landscape and folklore along this mighty river.

Dalian Int’l Fashion Festival
Venue: Dalian, Liaoning Province

The first Dalian Fashion Show was held in 1988. Renamed Dalian International Fashion Festival in 1991, it is a showcase of the latest developments in world fashion, presented by companies from various countries and regions. The general tendency for east and west to mingle offers a new impetus for the prosperity of fashion designs and the garment-making industry, and provides an entirely new aesthetic experience for mankind.

Large-scale variety shows in the open, an international garment exhibition, negotiations on the export of Chinese garments, a grand competition of up-and-coming Chinese fashion designers, and parades and performances of models.

Zhangjiajie Int’l Forest Festival
Venue: Zhangjiajie, Hunan Province

Zhangjiajie with its unmatched natural beauty is China’s first state forest reserve. The Wulingyuan district in the reserve is of superb scientific and aesthetic value, where there are bounteous scenic spots, the ecology is well protected, and the forms of 3,103 quartzite pillars shimmering in an ocean of shifting mists. With a 97 percent forest cover, Zhangjiajie is home to a good variety of rare and precious animals.

Tour of forests, geological study tour, rafting the Maoyan River, international mountaineering invitational tournament, cliff mounting competitions, as well as art performances, qigong shows and cliff climbing stunts by local Tujia villagers.

Qufu Int’l Confucian Festival
Venue: Qufu, Shangdong Province

Confucius, a celebrated thinker and educator, was born on the 27th day of the 8th lunar month (towards the end of September in 551 BC in Qufu. Since ancient times, the anniversary of his birth has been marked in Qufu in the pomp and pageantry of sacrificial rituals. Since 1984 the local tourist authorities have launched a tour of the native place of Confucius on his birthday, to the delight of travelers from at home and abroad. In 1989, the program was renamed International Confucian Festival.

A grand ceremony to offer libation and sacrifices to Confucius, performances of music and dance in tribute to Confucius, exhibition on the life and accomplishments of Confucius, calligraphic show, the Confucian mansion, temple and forest (graveyard), Nishan (where the sage was born), and thematic tours designed to acquaint visitors with Confucius’ academic activities, the wedding customs in his hometown and the cuisine of his family kitchen.

Mid-Autumn Festival
Venue: All over China

During the Zhou Dynasty (16th-11th centuries BC), the night of the full moon was an occasion for the Chinese to hold rituals to greet the cool weather and sacrifice to the Goddess of the Moon. By the Tang Dynasty (618-907) moon-watching and merry-making had become part of the ritual. During the Northern Song (960-1127), the 15th day of the 8th lunar month was designated as Mid-Autumn Festival. When night falls, the orb of the moon hangs full in the firmament, shedding a flood of silvery light over the land, while family members in China gather for the happiness of reunion, munching moon cakes and marveling at the chastened glory of the Goddess of the Moon. By Chinese custom the 15th day of the 8th lunar month is a day for family reunion as symbolized by the full moon and the moon cake.

Ceremonies to make libation and sacrifices to the moon, and watching the moon while enjoying moon cakes. There is always something dream-like and romantic about Mid-Autumn Festival, on account of its close association with such Chinese fables as Chang’e fleeing to the moon, the man Wu Gang performing the unending servitude to cutting an osmanthus tree, and the Jade Rabbit pounding medicinal herbs with a pestle. For men of letters the festival is an occasion to get together, improvise poems over a cup of wine and recite them to each other.

Mt. Huangshan Festival
Venue: Huangshan, Anhui Province

The first Huangshan International Tourist Festival took place on October 25-30, 1991, and was attended by 103 tour operators and representative of travel services of the United States, Japan, Thailand, France, Germany, Singapore and other countries. A total of 500,000 people took part in the activities organized during the festival. The success of the festival not only won the heart of travelers from at home and abroad, but also expanded the worldwide reputation of Mount Huangshan and promoted local tourism. The local authorities, therefore, have designated it as an annual event.

Traditional lantern shows, folklore performances, tour of Mount Huangshan and ancient structures in Huizhou, tourist business talks, negotiations on attracting foreign investment, and commodity fairs.

Chang’an Calligraphic Conference
Venue: Xi’an, Shaanxi Province

The annual Chang’an International Calligraphic Conference is an important national tourist program. For Shaanxi Province, it is also a large-scale activity involving foreign visitors. Since its inception, the conference has attracted calligraphers, calligraphic fans and tourists from all over the world. The conference is designed to publicize the image of Shaanxi Province and promote local tourism.

The grand opening ceremony, inscribing a 100-meter-long scroll, meetings of famous calligraphers from China and the rest of the world, calligraphy exhibition, auctions of works of calligraphy and paintings by famous Chinese artists. Each conference attracts nearly 1,000 calligraphers and tourists.

Jingdezhen Int’l Ceramics Festival
Venue: Jingdezhen, Jiangxi Province

A millennium in the making of porcelain ware has earned Jingdezhen the name “Capital of Porcelain.” Elegant ornamentation, jade-like textures, and translucent walls – these are reasons behind the superlative quality of porcelain products that bear the name Jingdezhen. The Jingdezhen International Ceramics Festival is organized to disseminate the Chinese ceramics technology and promote international exchange in ceramics.

A grand international ceramics show, an exhibition of Jingdezhen porcelain products from the Tang Dynasty to the Qing Dynasty, an exhibition of ceramic works by famous contemporary artists, porcelain making demonstrations, tea ceremonies, international ceramics symposium, business activities, etc. There are also tours of the city’s ceramics industry, including porcelain-making technology of the Ming and Qing dynasties, and ruins of ancient kilns, and ceramics study tours.

Harbin Ice and Snow Festival
Venue: Harbin, Heilongjiang Province

With 190-day freezing season, the northeastern city of Harbin is known as a “City of Ice” and a cradle of the ice-and-snow culture in the world. The long and frigid winter, and the high plasticity and hardness of ice blocks quarried from the Songhua River, furnish favorable conditions for ice and snow sculpture. On January 5, 1985, the first Harbin Ice and Snow Festival was unveiled. Since then it has become an annual event, which is highly acclaimed around the world. Harbin was also the venue of the Third Asian Winter Sports Tournament.

Ice lantern show, snow sculpture display, and international ice and snow sculpture competitions; winter swimming, ice hockey, speed-skating, alpine skiing, and cross-country skiing competitions; and ice and snow film festival exhibitions of paintings, calligraphy and photograph, folklore shows, ethnic song and dance parties, weddings on an ice-covered river. A participation in the ice-snow festival can be compared to a visit to a fairyland of crystal palace.

The Corban Festival
Venue: Areas with large Hui, Uygur and Kazakh communities.

According to Arabic legend, Ibrahim was a pious follower of Allah. Once, in a dream, Ibrahim got Allah’s divine message for him to slaughter his own son as a sacrifice. When he was about to carry out the order, a messenger sent by Allah descended with a goat, and asked Ibrahim to sacrifice the goat instead of his own son. Since then the Muslims have been marking the day by slaughtering goats for the sake of safety. This gradually evolved into the Corban, a festival for slaughter goats.

During the festival the Muslims gather in the mosque for prayers and a ceremony to slaughter the animals. Then families begin to celebrate by slaughtering cattle, goats and camels and treating friends with the meat, and the dinner table is enshrouded in a fraternal atmosphere. In Xinjiang, the various ethnic minorities celebrate the Corban by singing and dancing, and taking part in such games as scrambling for a goat, horse racing, and young women chasing after men for love and fun.

Chinese Cuisine

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Chinese cuisine has a long history, and is one of the Chinese cultural treasures. It is as famous all over the world as French cuisine. Chinese cookery has developed and matured over the centuries, forming a rich cultural content. It is characterized by fine selection of ingredients, precise processing, particular care to the amount of fire, and substantial nourishment. Local flavours and snacks and special dishes have formed according to regions, local products, climate, historical factors, and eating habits.

1. Major Chinese Local Cuisine
Each local cuisine has its own characteristics, but Chinese cuisine as a whole is divided into four major schools-Shandong, Sichuan, huaiyang, and Guangdong (Cantonese). Four more can be added: Hunan, Fuijian, Anhui, and Zhejiang. Sometimes Beijing and Shanghai cuisine are also counted.

Guangdong Cuisine (Yue Cuisine): Guangdong cuisine uses a great variety of ingredients such as birds, freshwater fish, snakes, and saltwater fish. It emphasizes freshness and tenderness. Representative dishes of the Guangdong cuisine are three snake dragon tiger meeting, dragon tiger phoenix snake soup, stir-fried shrimp, eight-treasure lotus-seed glutinous rice, fresh mushrooms in oyster sauce, pot-cooked soft-shelled turtle, and crisp-skin roast piglet.

Shandong Cuisine (Lu Cuisine): This cuisine uses a wide and fine selection of ingredients. The plentiful dishes are cooked in many ways. Shandong soups are most famous, and green onion is commonly used as a seasoning. Shandong cuisine is best represented by its variety of seafood dishes, such as sea cucumber braised with green onion, braised snake-head egg, crab eggs with shark's fin, Dezhou roast chicken, and walnuts in butter soup.

Sichuan Cuisine (Chuan Cuisine): Sichuan cuisine dishes are famous in China and abroad for their spicy-hot taste and the flavour of Chinese prickly ash. Sichuan cooks select their ingredients with great care, use a variety of seasonings and cook each dishes are differently. Thus Sichuan dishes are known as a hundred dishes with a hundred tastes. Most common flavour include hot and spicy, five fragrances, mixed spices, chilli and Chinese prickly ash, and sweet and sour. Famous Sichuan dishes include spicy pork shreds, diced chicken with peanuts and vegetables, bear's paw, chicken cubes in mixed spices, bean curd with chilli and Chinese prickly ash and fried carp.

Huaiyang Cuisine (Huaiyang Cuisine): Huaiyang cuisine includes dishes from Yangzhou, Zhenjiang, and Huai'an in Jiangsu Province. It focuses on the freshness of ingredients. Huaiyang dishes have a light flavour, retaining the original tastes of ingredients. They also have pleasant colors and pretty shapes. Famous dishes include beggar's chicken, sweet and sour mandarin fish, chicken pieces with egg white, boiled salted duck deep-boiled crab meat in clear soup and steamed shad.

2. Special Cuisine
Palace, vegetarian, and medicinal dishes are categorized a special cuisine. Palace cuisine originated from the imperial kitchens, where dishes for emperors and empresses were cooked. Palace dishes are made from carefully selected ingredients and cooked with great care. Different dishes are made for different seasons. Cutting methods are exquisite. Diners eat according to traditional procedures.

Vegetarian Cuisine: Vegetarian cuisine became popular in the Song Dynasty (960-1279) and developed further in the Ming and Qing(1368-1911) dynasties. Three divisions of vegetarian cuisine—temple, palace, and folk- appeared during that time.

Made of green vegetables, fruits, edible fungi, and bean products, and cooked in vegetable oil, vegetarian dishes are tasty, nourishing, and highly digestible, and they help the body resist cancer. They are cooked in various ways, and some taste like meat. Famous dishes include "chicken", mushrooms and gluten, "meat" braised in soy sauce and spices, "ham" with mixed vegetables, hot and sour spices, "fish" with Chinese toon, "shrimp," and dried "meat" strips.

Muslim Dishes (Qing Zhen Cuisine) became popular at the time when Islam spread to China, inheriting the cooking tradition of the nomadic peoples in ancient north-western and north-eastern China. The most representative dishes include instant-boiled mutton, fried rice with mutton, dumplings with filling of mutton, cakes braised with mutton, and beef-entrails soup.

Medicinal Cuisine (Yao Shan): Also called therapeutic food, medicinal cuisine is an important part of Chinese cooking. Master Chefs have developed many food therapies by combining cookery and traditional Chinese medicine. Famous medicinal dishes include lily and chicken soup, shrimp meat with pearl powder, tianfu carp, duck braised with soy sauce and orange peel, and steamed dumplings stuffed with minced meat and podia cocoas, a medicinal plant.

Other famous cuisine includes Confucian dishes, Tan's dishes and full formal banquet cuisine, combining Manchurian and Chinese delicacies.

3. Local Flavors and Snacks
China has many local flavors and snacks. The southerners prefer rice, while the northerners prefer noodles. Beijing flavour is famous for sweetness, Guangdong snacks are more Western, and Suzhou snacks have pleasant colors and beautiful shapes. The most famous Chinese local flavours and snacks include bean curd jelly in Beijing; Guobuli steamed dumplings in Tianjin, small steamed soup dumplings with the ovaries and digestive organs of crabs in Zhenjiang, small steamed pork dumplings served in the steamer tray in Shanghai, dumplings stuffed with crab meat sesame paste and pea sprouts.

In recent years, fast food, such as Mcdonald's hamburgers, Kuntucky Fried Chicken, and pizza have become popular in China.

Explore & Discover, Travel Info & Tips

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China is compiled of a vast variety of extremely different landscapes, using mostly plateaus and mountains in the west, & lower lands on the east. As a effect, principal rivers flow From west to east, including the Yangtze (central), the Huang He (central-east), and the Amur (northeast), and every now and again toward the south (admitting the Pearl River, Mekong River, & Brahmaputra), by using most Chinese rivers emptying into the Pacific Ocean.

In the east, by the shores of the Yellow Sea and the East China Sea there are extended and densely populated alluvial plains;. On the edges of the Inner Mongolian plateau in the northerly, grasslands may be seen. Southern China is dominated by hills & low mountain ranges. In the central-east are the deltas of China's two major rivers, the Huang He & Yangtze River (Chang Jiang). to the highest degree of China's arable lands lie by those rivers; they were the centers of China's major ancient civilizations. Extra large rivers include the Pearl River, Mekong, Brahmaputra & Amur.

In the west, the northerly has a great alluvial plain, and the south has a vast calcareous tableland covered by hill ranges of moderate elevation, and the Himalayas, containing the highest point Mount Everest. The northwesterly also has high plateaus sustaining more arid desert landscapes such as the Takla-Makan and the Gobi Desert, which one has been expanding. During many dynasties, the southwestern border of China has been the high mounts and deep valleys of Yunnan, which one split modern China since Burma, Laos & Vietnam.

The Paleozoic formations of China, excepting only the upper separate of the Carboniferous system, are marine, when the Mesozoic and Tertiary deposits are estuarine and freshwater or even else of terrestrial origin. Groupings of volcanic cones occur in the awesome Plain of northerly China. In the Liaodong & Shandong Peninsulas, in that location are basaltic plateaus.

The climate of China varies greatly. The northern zone (containing Beijing) has winters of Arctic severity. The central zone (containing Shanghai) has a temperate clime. The southern zone (containing Guangzhou) has a subtropical climate.

Due to a prolonged drought & poor agricultural practices, dust storms have get usual in the spring in China. Dust has blown to southern China & Taiwan, and has even reached the West Coast of the United States. Water, erosion, & pollution control keep close at hand get crucial issues in China's dealings by owning Other areas.

Confucianism was the official philosophy throughout virtually of Imperial China's history, & mastery of Confucian texts was the main criterion for entry into the majestic bureaucracy. The literary emphasis of the exams impacted the general perception of cultural refinement in China, e.g. the look at that calligraphy was a higher art form than painting or drama. China's traditional measures were derived Derived from various versions of Confucianism and conservatism. A number of further authoritarian strains of believed have as well been influential, such as Legalism.

There was typically dispute betwixt the philosophies, such as the individualistic Song Dynasty neo-Confucians, that thought Legalism departed since the original spirit of Confucianism. Examinations & a culture of merit stay greatly valued in China today. In recent years, a number of New Confucians use at times advocated that democratic ideals and human rights are quite well-matched by having traditional Confucian "Asian values"

Using the rise of Western economic and military power beginning in the mid-19th century, non-Chinese systems of social and political organization gained adherents in China. Some of those would-be reformers totally rejected China's cultural legacy, whilst others sought to combine the strengths of Chinese & Western cultures. In center, the history of 20th century China is one of experimentation By using new systems of social, political, and economic administration that would permit for the reintegration of the country in the wake of dynastic collapse.

The first leaders of the PRC were born in the old society but were determined by the May Fourth Movement and reformist ideals. They sought to change A few traditional aspects of Chinese culture, such as rural land tenure, sexism, & Confucian education, while keeping others, such as the family structure & obedience to the state. numbers of observers think that the period following 1949 is a continuation of traditional Chinese dynastic history, while others say that the CPC's rule has damaged the foundations of Chinese culture, especially through political movements such as the Cultural Revolution, where Several aspects of traditional culture were labeled "regressive & harmful" or "vestiges of feudalism" by the regime.

They further argue that Many crucial aspects of traditional Chinese morals and culture, like Confucianism, Chinese art, literature, & playing arts like Beijing opera house, were altered to conform to regime policies and communist propaganda. The institution of the Simplified Chinese orthography reform is controversial too. Today, the PRC authorities has accepted much of traditional Chinese culture as an integral part of Chinese society, lauding it as an crucial accomplishment of the Chinese civilization and emphasizing it as existence vital to the formation of a Chinese interior identity.

Fine art, scholarship, and literature

Chinese characters have had Many variants & styles throughout Chinese history. Tens of thousands of ancient compose documents are still extant, from Oracle bones to Qing edicts. Calligraphy is a major art variety in China, further extremely regarded than painting & music. Manuscripts of the Classics and religious texts (mainly Confucian, Taoist, & Buddhist) were handwritten by ink brush. Calligraphy later became commercialized, & works by famous artists became prized ownerships.

Printmaking was evolved During the Song Dynasty. Academies of scholars sponsored by the empire were organized to comment on the classics in two printed and handwritten form. Royalty frequently took part in these discussions.

For centuries, economic & social advancement in China could be supplied by high up performance on the majestic examinations. This headed to a meritocracy, although it was available only to males who could afford test readying. imperial examinations expected applicants to write essays and demonstrate mastery of the Confucian classics. Those that passed the top level of the exam turned elite scholar-officials known as jinshi, a extremely esteemed socio-economic status.

Chinese philosophers, writers, and poets were extremely respected, and played key roles in preserving & advancing the culture of the empire. A few classical scholars, however, were noted for their daring depictions of the lives of the most common people, often to the displeasure of authorities.

Sports and recreation

At that place is grounds to believe that a variety of football (i.e. soccer) was first played in China around 1000 CE, leading Numerous historians to suppose that it originated there.Besides football, the most mainstream sports are martial Arts, table tennis, badminton, basketball, U.S. football, & extra lately, golf. Basketball is especially mainstream By owning the young, in urban centers where space is limited. The NBA has a great following & Many idolize Yao Ming.

There are also Several traditional sports. Chinese dragon boat racing occurs during the Duan Wu festival. In Inner Mongolia, Mongolian-style grappling & horse racing are popular. In Tibet, archery & equestrian athleticses are part of traditional festivals.

China has turn into a athleticses power in the Asian region & around the world. China finished 1st in medal counts in each of the Asian Games as 1982,& in the top four in medal numbers in each of the Summer Olympic Games as 1992. The 2008 Summer Olympics, formally acknowledge as the Games of the XXIX Olympiad, will be carried in Beijing, China.

Physical good condition is extremely regarded. Morning exercisings are a most common activity & the elderly are often seen practicing qigong in parks.

Board games such as International Chess, Go (Weiqi), and Xiangqi (Chinese chess) are also mutual and have organised formal rivalries.

Useful China Travel Tips

Try to get a English speaking tour guide at every opportunity you can. China has a rich and wonderful history and culture and without a guide, somehow, the flavour and significance of most tour sites can be lost.

Sneaky tip: Hang around a group that has a English speaking guide if you cannot afford one! Always ask for a receipt from a taxi driver so that you can complain if you have been cheated or for tracing purposes if you happen to leave your camera behind in the taxi.

Try to take the "namecard" for each hotel that you are staying at as these cards will have a Chinese address and the map of your hotel location. This is useful if you need to seek assistance to find your way back as the English version or pronunciation of a hotel or a street name may be quite different from the Chinese version.

After a tiring day, check out Chinese foot reflexology or Chinese TuiNa (Chinese massage). Wonderful for the body after a hard day and very cheap to boot. Simply look out for shop signs that shows two feet! They are everywhere.

Make friends with the Chinese whenever you can. They love to meet foreigners and will make good tour guides. Just buy a small present as a small token of appreciation.

How to Discover the Wonders of China

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Planning a tour to China, the largest and oldest country in the world is truly a must for anyone who wants to experience a unique travel adventure. China is known to have an ancient civilization which dates back to some thousand years ago and this is one of the reasons why China has a rich and unique culture full of historical values.

As a popular tourist destination in the Far East, China has a lot of wonderful attractions, sightseeing and historical wonders for the enthusiastic travelers who want to discover the true beauty of China. The best times to visit China is usually during May and September as these periods offer good weather conditions for visiting.

In order to enjoy your travel plans in China, it is advisable to consult the services of a reputable China tour agency. They are responsible for planning your entire trip from the moment you arrive in the airport till the day you depart. They also provide the hotel accommodations and other transportation facilities throughout your stay in China. To make your stay a successful one, they assign a bilingual local tourist guide to assist and guide you through your tours around the country. A fascinating thing about the travel wonders of China is that for every sightseeing and attraction, there is a historical or cultural origin behind it.

Beijing, the country’s capital boasts of over 30 sightseeing and attractions out of which include the famous Great Wall of China, the Forbidden City, the Temple of Heaven, the Summer Palace, the Ming Tombs and a variety of others. Beijing is usually the first city tourists visit due to their excitement to see the great wall. In general, Beijing is known to be a historical city because of the many monuments and attractions which played a great role in China’s civilization and still remains as it was since over five hundred years.

Yunnan, the international tourist destination is a province in China favorable to many international tourists because of its pleasant climate. Apart from the climatic conditions, Yunnan boasts of a number of cities with scenic and beautiful landscapes which makes for a great place for nature lovers on a getaway from the bustling
streets of city. From the spring city of Kunming, to the old town of Lijiang and Dali, Yunnan is the perfect getaway for tourists who want to appreciate the natural endowments of China’s sceneries and landscapes.

A tour to Tibet, the pilgrimage destination of Buddhists can also be included in your tour itinerary during your travel in China. Tibet is considered to be the rooftops of the world because of the high elevation of its geographical location. The tourism of this region has flourished in recent years due to the opening of the
Tibet-Qinghai high speed rail which connects Beijing to Lhasa. Amateur fanatics of mythical train journeys can finally have their dreams come true as they speed on top of the world to experience some peace in the Tibetan Kingdom.

Guilin and Yangshuo is the backpacking capital of China. With its special breath taking sceneries and caves, this town has opened the opportunity to mountaineers and backpackers who want to discover the hidden wonders of China.

Shanghai is one of China’s cosmopolitan cities which showcase a blend of modernity and history. The first class skyscrapers and Ming styled architecture of Shanghai buildings is what attract visitors to this bustling city. Shanghai also known as the “Oriental Paris” is the best place to shop for all kinds of branded shoes, clothes,
jewelries and gifts from first class to low quality in almost any type of store.

Harbin is the magical ice world of China. Located in the north of China, this region is synonymous for the annual celebration of the Harbin Ice Festival which attracts visitors from all over the world to participate in the magnificent showcase of legendary ice sculptures and carvings.

Xian is one of China’s ancient cities where civilization started. It has grown to become an industrial and tourist destination which proudly boasts of the site of the Big Wild Goose Pagoda and the Terracotta Army and Warriors.China is known to house twenty four heritage sites listed on the UNESCO World Heritage list. These cultural
treasures are a part of what contributes to China’s history.

What Makes China an Ideal Holiday Destination

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In recent years China has developed into a very popular tourist destination. It is now possible to rent holiday home accommodation in China and experience the true culture of this unique country. China is one of the world's oldest continuous civilizations. This country has the highest population in the whole world and some amazing sights for tourists to see. It is famous for it electronic goods, travel and tourism.

A visit to China is like a visit to another world. It has different culture, different food and different people. China has several attractions to offer the tourists. It is like a treasure box that hides some of the best tourist places.

Beijing is the capital of the China. It is the most popular city of the country and famous for its cultural and historic places. Beijing has a number of temples, parks, museums and ancient houses. So, if you are willing to gather the information about the rich history and culture of China, Beijing is an ideal place for you. When staying in Beijing it is now possible to rent self catering holiday apartments.

If you are visiting China for the first time then you should explore The Great Wall Of China. It is one of the seven wonders of the world. It is China's most important cultural and historic symbols. It starts from the Shanghaiguan in the east of China and ends in the Jiayuguan in the west of China. It covers a total distance of around 6,300 kilometers.

The Great Wall of China was first built as a defense line against the nomadic incursions. The construction of this wall was begun around seventh century BC. Every year millions of tourists visit the great wall and are amazed by its sheer scale. The Wall of China is also known as a paradise for photographers. So, if you have a passion for photography, take your camera and be sure to visit this amazing sight.

Another popular tourist destination of China is the Forbidden City. It is also known as the Palace Museum or Imperial Palace. It is located in the center of the Beijing. This place is ideal for those people who love to gather information about the history of the country. The Forbidden City is also one of UNESCO's World Heritage sites.

For all those people who love to spend their holidays near to nature, the Heavenly Lake is the best place for them. This lake is situated in the east of Tianshan Mountain range. The lake is surrounded by the snow covered mountains that make it one of the most beautiful lakes of the world. This lake has an average depth of 60 meters and you can witness ice bergs, ice mushrooms and ice fountains. If you are lucky enough you will be able to rent holiday home accommodation in this region.

China also offers several places for worshiping like the Temple of Heaven. This temple is the largest temple and altar complex in China. You can get the experience of a peaceful atmosphere and also enjoy walking through its beautiful park. You can also watch local people doing Tai Chi and other forms of exercise like dancing. You can also relax in this place in a peaceful atmosphere.

To experience the marine life of China, you can explore the Ocean Aquarium in China. This is one of the favorite tourist spots of the country. Ocean Aquarium is the largest aquarium in the world. You can see several marine creatures here and it is well worth a visit.

China has made a real effort in the last few years to encourage tourists and has relaxed its regulations to accommodate them. In some parts of China it is now possible to rent holiday home accommodation. If you get the chance to rent a holiday home in China it will allow you to experience the real China and get a true feel of the culture of this unique country.

Epic Culture

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Uzbekistan is a country in Central Asia which was previously a part in Soviet Russia. Kazakhstan lies to its west, Kyrgyzstan to its north, Tajikistan to its east and Afghanistan and Turkmenistan to its south. Uzbekistan is place where ancient history is found and there are natural scenes and sceneries. There is living history found in this city which is preserved not only in the museums but is also found in the temples, tombs and the sites of the ancient settlements.

Uzbekistan is still a religious pilgrimage. There are tall minarets, madrassahs, mosques and palaces and mausoleums which are decorated with jewels. There are oriental bazaars, ancient traditions and culture and warm hospitality by the people found here.

There are many architectural monuments found on the plains of Central Asia. Afrosiab hills, Bibi Khanum mosque, Gur Emir Mausoleum, Registan, Shahi zinda ensemble square are the greatest tourist attractions. The cities which are famous here for science and art are Samarkhand, Bukhara, Khiva, Shakhrisabz, Termez and Kokand. The palaces and monuments are created to give a tribute to Alexander the great and Genghis Khan. The natural beauty of this place is such that after seeing it you will be mesmerized by it. The white mountains under the blue sky start shining under the rays of the sun. The mountain passes, gorges, pastures and the rapidly flowing rivers attract tourists from all over the world.

There are special tours to the great silk route, the land of tamer lane and Babur, Al-bukhari which is a combination of ancient and modern cultures. The journey to Uzbekistan is very luxurious. A site of the historical and modern places, the various food found here, meeting the various people serves as a luxurious tour. Uzbekistan is no doubt a fantastic place to visit and people are often very much impressed after seeing it all. Uzbekistan has a continental climate with little precipitation. Uzbekistan is located between the Amu dyra and the Syr dyra rivers.

Samarkhand, Bukhara and Khiva are the places where architectural splendors are found and hence tourists come here from very far places. There are both individual and group tours provided to the tourists. There are also some conferences and seminars organized in Uzbekistan. Tashkent is the capital city of Uzbekistan. Samarkhand is
considered to be the mirror of the world, garden of the soul, jewel of Islam and the centre of the universe. In Bukhara, its founder had built a Citadel but its growth depended entirely on its location. There are also a few other cities but Ferghana valley is considered to be the heart of Uzbekistan and majority of the people of Uzbekistan live here. The people here are very fond of music and dance. Handicraft is also a very important part of the culture here.

Central Asia Travel Destinations

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Uzbekistan lies at the heart of the Great Silk Road. For centuries, oases of Samarkand, Bukhara and Khiva brought respite to the caravans as they made their way across the desert. A tour through this country immerses you in the essence of the progress of civilization as it moved west.

Today, Uzbekistan preserves this heritage while striving to bring its largely rural, historically nomadic populations better lives in a post-Soviet world. Slightly larger in area than California and with a population of 26 million, Uzbekistan contains more than half of Central Asia's people.

Known as the 'sunny republic,' Uzbekistan is arid with annual rainfall between only 4 and 8 inches. But its heavily irrigated river valleys make it the second largest cotton exporter in the world. It also contains important mineral resources and is a world leader in gold production.

Historically, Uzbekistan is exceedingly rich, making it a truly great tourist destination. More than 4,000 historic sites dot the country, and thus its stature as the pearl of the ancient Silk Road. Civilization was already ancient here when Alexander the Great conquered the region in the 4th Century BC. Up until the discovery of ocean routes to India and China, Uzbekistan lay at the crossroads of communication between East and West and was the center of trade and exchange of ideas.

The conqueror Tamerlane (1336-1405) was born near present day Shahrisabz and created an empire that extended throughout Central Asia to Turkey and south to the Ganges. Tamerlane was also a patron of the arts and transformed Samarkand into a magnificent capital for his empire. Importing artisans from conquered territories, He and later rulers commissioned majestic buildings many of which still stand.

Central among them is the Registan, which was the heart of the city. Madrasahs or Muslim religious academies face three sides of the square, giving, one built by Tamerlane's grandson who also built an observatory which he used to advance the science of astronomy during his reign.

Another legendary city is Bukhara, lying to the west. Another oases for Silk Road caravans, Bukhara became one of the great learning centers in the Muslim world and spawned the mystical Sufi sect of Islam. The city today still contains 350 mosques and supports more than 100 religious academies. With narrow streets, many parks and gardens, numerous historical sites and lively bazaars, a visit to this ancient city will satisfy a diverse range of interests. Travel here and you are sure to find something that resonates with your spirit.

Further west still, you come to a museum under the blue sky, Khiva. A city reputed to have been founded by Shem, one of the Biblical Noah's sons, Khiva has preserved its ancient past and been turned into a living record of its days as a key center of trade along the Silk Road. The historic center of the city contains spectacular examples of Islamic architecture. Palaces, minarets and mausoleums from centuries ago have been preserved and refurbished making Khiva a lens through which you can gaze into history.

Uzbekistan - The Ancient Heart of Central Asia

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Uzbekistan is home to some of the oldest cities in the world. As it is situated between two rivers, the Amu-Darya and the Sir-Darya, it was considered as the crossroads of the famed Silk Road, a lucrative trading route that ran through the center of Uzbekistan. The area has always been a haven for culture and for religion. In fact, Zoroastrianism, which predates Christianity and Islam, began in what is now called Uzbekistan, and this religion is still practiced worldwide.

Quite a bit of technology existed early in civilization, and the people of Uzbekistan were involved in building and improving irrigation systems, weaving silk, maintaining an armory, growing and cultivation cotton and various types of grain, grapes, and other fruits. Those who had knowledge of these cultural achievements were held in high regard.

Uzbekistan is once again a popular destination for travelers to Central Asia. There are so many interesting places to go and things to see that you may have a difficult time choosing what attractions to visit. Uzbekistan travel is a lot like stepping into another world.

Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan, presents an awesome mix of ancient and modern architecture: from centuries old Zangiota mausoleum and Khast Imam ensemble to Tashkent metro, the magnificent underground artwork in itself, and the TV Tower, the tallest building in Central Asia.

Samarkand has the Afrasiab Museum, which is filled with archeological items that were found during the time between the 4th and the 13th centuries, A.C.

Bukhara has many mosques and mausoleums to check out, such as the Magoki-Attari, the Kalyan, and the Djami mosques and the Samanids, the Chashma-Ayub mausoleums.

Khiva is unique in that the entire town was declared as a "historical monument of world significance" by UNESCO. Every building and attraction in this town has been preserved in the style that was in use when the town was established 2500 years ago. Khiva can boast of having more minarets in all of Asia.

Shakhrisabz includes the historic Kok Gumbaz mosque, built in 1437, and the Gumbaz Seyidan mausoleum, built in 1438.

Termez, which is located on the left bank of the Amudarya River, has the Kokildor-Ota mausoleum, and the Karatepa, a Buddhist center which is constructed on three hills. There are temples and monasteries that were here during the 2nd century A.D.

The city of Nurata has the distinction of being founded by Alexander the Great in 327 B.C. He also installed a water supply system that is still used today. What is left of the fortress used by Alexander and his men remains here, as well as the Djuma mosque.

Baysun is a highly interesting place to visit. In this town, the customs and culture of the locals has not changed for many thousands of years. Cave Teshiktash, where the remains of Neanderthal people have been found, and rock paintings from the Mesolite era can be seen in the Kohitang Mountains.

Uzbekistan travel is an experience you won't soon forget!

Kazakhstan Promotion of its Tourist Potential

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Kazakhstan also spelled Kazakstan, is a country that stretches over a vast expanse of Asia, and a former republic of the now extinct USSR.

Given the unique natural beauty and rapid growth of inbound tourism, Kazakhstan government pays a great deal of attention to the promotion of its tourist potential abroad and participates in international travel fairs and exhibitions all around the world on the regular basis. The World Travel Market in London is one of the most important annual events in the tourist sphere for Kazakhstan and that is why Kazakhstan has been taking part in this established exhibition since 2001.

Kazakhs are very hospitable and like to meet guests they dont have any objections to receiving uninvited guests that is why if you come home to a Kazakh unexpectedly he will be glad as if you were invited. Respect to older people, peacefulness and tolerance brought up from childhood are national features of Kazakhs. That is why in
Kazakhstan there were never conflicts on ethnic or confessional grounds and many people of different ethnic and religious origins of the world live and work peacefully here. In order to learn customs and traditions of Kazakh people and to explore Kazakhstan we invite you to visit our beautiful country.

In general Kazakhs prefer meat dishes. Favourite national dish of Kazakhs is beshbarmak. Beshbarmak is cooked of lamb, horse meat, beef and dough. Such dishes of horse meat and of course, mares milk are favourite. Medicinal drink mares milk has curative qualities and effect and is used for treatment of lung and intestinal gastric illnesses. Taking into account that peoples of more than hundred nationalities live in Kazakhstan, cuisine of Kazakhstan is diverse. People here love national dishes of Russian, Ukrainian, Uzbek, Korean and European cuisine. In many cities of the country there are many restaurants and cafes where you are offered the variety of dishes of the national, European and other cuisines.

West Kazakhstan is situated on the crossroads of the European and Asian continents in the basin of the Caspian Sea, the Volga and the Ural. It is the location of the world second deepest depression that of Kargije lying 132 m below sea level, remarkable chalky rocks. One can find here fine areas rich with game which promise good hunting, can entertain ideas of good luck in angling, in water sports. Tremendous scientific interest present reserves and monuments.

North Kazakhstan has everything landscape and climatic conditions. Health resorts offer fine rehabilitation opportunities while natural preserves Kurgaldzhino and Naurzum would be quite interesting for amateurs tourist.

Central Kazakhstan displays to perfect advantage one of the largest lakes of the world, the lake of Balkhash supplemented by a unique mountainous and forest oasis. The area harbours plenty of memorable places exhibiting various archaeological and ethnographic relics.

East Kazakhstan is represented by the Altai and its wooded foothills, the river of Irtysh and such lakes. Fairly rich are flora and fauna of the region.

Holidays in Kazakhstan

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The ninth largest country in the world, Kazakhstan is also the largest landlocked country. For those who love to explore the unexplored sights, trudge along the arid deserts, and learn more about history, Kazakhstan is the place to visit. It has varied types of terrain, ranging from plains, plateaus, to steppes and even rocky hills. The country closest to its border is Russia, and maybe because of this, there is a strong influence in culture and religion.

The lakes that lie in the midst of forested hills, Kol Say lakes are at a height of nearly 2000 meters from the sea level. A great place for camping and spending a few nights under the stars, people come here just to take it all in and live as one with their surroundings. There are even helicopter trips that take off from the Almaty, and land in Saty, which is a lower lake, and can be reached through road as well. In and around this area, there are plenty of walking, trekking and horse back riding opportunities which has families excited and curious.

Kozha Ahmed Yasaui Mausoleum is the place where the famous sufi singer and poet's history is etched on the grave walls. A tomb that was built in the place where he died has become a monument of sorts for those who were fond of his poems and verses. Since the place was built around 1166, it has withered with age, and is now being restored by the Turkish government to preserve its appearance.

Set in the midst of thick mountains, the Almatinsky natural reserve is where one gets to see wildlife in their homes. Snow leopards and other endangered species of animals can be seen roaming the length of this reserve. Within the reserve is the highest peak, Mt Talgar, which can be climbed, but takes nearly 4 days to reach the hill top. Be sure to have permit for the same before venturing out into the trek.

A lake that is half fresh water and half saline is one spot that every visitor to Kazakhstan must see. It is also said ot be one of the largest lakes in the world, surrounding which there is rich history in the buildings and monuments. These have been around since the Bronze age and the early iron ages, and so are nearly thousands of years old.

In the city of Almaty, lies the beautiful grand ballet theatre where one can witness the most exquisite performances. These take place regularly and so if you keep an eye out for the dates, you could catch one being performed by local artists. This is a place where one learns about the rich heritage, art and ofcourse the cultural beauty that lies within Kazakhstan.

About Kazakhstan

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Kazakhstan is bounded by the Russia, the Caspian ocean, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan & China. For centuries, Kazakhstan's vast plains were home only to nomads and they are still literally empty. Most colonies are concentrated in the southeast & the east of the Republic.

South Kazakhstan is a focus of Central Asian history & there are numbers of notable monuments in the region. It is a scenically diverse area where the snow-capped peaks, lakes and glaciers of the Tian Shan range make way to steppe & desert.

The desert is home to the Singing Barkhan - a sand dune 3.2kilometer (2 miles) long, which one, as it crumbles, creates a peculiar singing sound.

Almaty was until very recently the former capital of Kazakhstan & it enjoys a beautiful setting between mountains and plains. It is a city of modern architecture, cool fountains, parks and outstanding mountain views.

If you're not a fan of endless semi-arid steppe & decomposing industrial towns, Kazakhstan (Kazakstan) can seem bleak, but those who enjoy remoteness, wide open spaces, lunar landscapes, long hypnotic train rides and horse sausage will emphatically be in their element.

Enjoying the Underwater Life? Go to Asia!

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Nobody can give up diving once they get to feel the great sensation that this sport has to offer. The moments when you get to see the beauty that lies beneath the mysterious waters are surely priceless no matter where you are. Searching for the best place to go for scuba diving is impossible; there is no such thing as the best place for this sport. The underwater world is beautiful and surprising in so many ways that you simply cannot choose to do scuba diving in the same place every time. However, there are some extraordinary destinations to scuba that cannot be ignored by a fan of this sport no matter what. One of these wonderful locations is Asia, which can offer to its underwater visitors the remarkable view they want.

Asia is always full of surprises for the ones that choose it for a trip and this is available when it comes to scuba diving as well. It offers a tempting variety of dive destinations that no one can resist. If you decide to travel to Asia you have many options to choose from and you will surely want to visit each dive destination if possible. Once you get to go scuba diving in Asia you will definitely want to repeat the trip whenever you will have the time for that. You will also find that the tourism services provided there reach your standards with success.

One of the most popular locations for scuba diving in Asia is India, where you can choose from exciting places, such as Andaman and Nicobar. There you will find a diving location with a great potential that will satisfy your need for adventure. Lakshadweep Islands, also located in India, represent another beautiful location for scuba diving. Goa is a popular side vacation, often chosen by tourists. You can do scuba diving around Grande Island between October and May. The visibility varies depending on the season; in what concerns the marine life, the species you will meet there are numerous.

Besides the dive sites that you can already find there, the tourism in Asia is constantly increasing so many more other dive sites are developing. You will surely find a hospitable place to stay when you are going for scuba diving in Asia. As I mentioned above, the tourism is quickly developing so the services you will benefit from will definitely be on your tastes. In every dive site you can stay in a proper resort for tourists and you will benefit from help from a local firm that deals with divers. There is no reason why not consider the trip for scuba diving in Asia an unforgettable holiday.

Whether you choose to visit India for scuba diving or you decide to go to Indonesia, Malaysia or Thailand, one thing is sure. Asia has many surprising things to offer and you will not regret for choosing it for scuba diving. The world is full of destinations that offer a beautiful experience to the ones that practice scuba diving and Asia is one of the locations that should not be avoided.

A Popular Choice for Travelers

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The largest as well as the most populous continents in the world - Asia is a land of diversity with a multitude of geographies, cultures, and people. Occupying an area of about 9% of the total area of the earth's surface, Asia is home to more than five billion people.

In other words, Asia consists of more than 60% of the world's overall population. As a tourist destination, Asia boasts of a feast of attractions in the form of traditional cities, ancient monuments with superb architecture, museums and art galleries that throw light on the history of the place, incredible wild life, scenic mind blowing attractions, and attractions that are a blend of both east and west.

There are also a range of vibrant attractions, covering action packed beaches, bargain shopping areas, and exuberant nightclubs. Equally remarkable is the sumptuous cuisines available here, each of which is a representation of different cultures. In fact, the world's majority of tourist attractions are found in Asia. Discussed further in this article are some of the most popular tourist attractions in Asia.

The continent of Asia is home to such incredible destinations as India, China, Japan, Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, Thailand, Sri Lanka, and Philippines. Asia has such a great number of attractions that even a year is not enough to explore them all. For those who want to explore a range of rich culture and topography and at the same time interested in recreational pursuits, then one of the most suitable options would be to take a tour to India. Stunning beaches, gorgeous monuments, ancient temples, and lively cities, all sum up the attractions of India. Attractions, among many others, in India are Red Fort and Qutab Minar in Delhi, Taj Mahal, one of the world's seven wonders, Khajuraho Temples in Madhya Pradesh, Elephanta Caves in Mumbai, Ajanta and Ellora Caves in Aurangabad, and Kerala's backwaters.

For those interested in exploring the pristine beauty as well as the ancient wonders, perhaps the greatest of all attractions in Asia would be China, which boasts of such lively destinations as Hong Kong, Shanghai, and Beijing, all of with loads of mind blowing attractions. Most popular among the attractions in China are the Great Wall, the Forbidden City, Terracotta Warriors, Potala Palace, West Lake, and Mogao Grottos. Another much sought after tourist destination in Asia is Japan, which is acknowledged as the Land of the Rising Sun. It features attractions such as Nara Park, Kyoto's Higashiyama area, Kin Osaki, Himeji Castle, and Takayama in Gifu. With attractions such as Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam is also an incredible spot in Asia.

Popular countries in Asia also include the Kingdom of Thailand, which is probably the number one tourist destination in South-East Asia. What that set apart Thailand from other spots in Asia is its breathtaking natural beauty, stunning temples, gorgeous island destinations, stupendous monuments, healthy cuisines, and above all
presence of amicable Thai people.

Just few among many of the attractions in Thailand are Bangkok, the capital city; Ayutthaya, which is much famed for its Gothic ruins; Chiang-Mai, bestowed with the title 'Rose of the North,' Krabi, which is a paradise for enjoying a range of water sport activities; and Pattaya, one of the best resorts in Asia. Also, a tourist spot in South-East Asia is Singapore, which is an island destination situated at the Malay Peninsula's southern tip. Singapore Botanic Gardens, Singapore Discovery Center, Little India, and China Town, are some of the Singapore's landmarks.

Southeast Asia also contains incredible destinations such as Indonesia - the largest archipelagic nation in the world; Malaysia, with attractions like Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya; Philippines, with more than 7000 islands; and Burma, which is the largest country in Southeast Asia. Other top places of interest in Asia are Sri Lanka - an island destination located off the southern tip of India; Afghanistan, with a rich as well as complex history; Maldives, which consists of more than 1,000 coral islands in the Indian Ocean; Uzbekistan, one of the most popular destinations in Central Asia; Kyrgyzstan, which is probably the most popular tourist spot in Central Asia; and Bangladesh, which has to its credit a number of ancient palaces, magnificent Buddhist shrines, and beautiful
monuments.

In short, Asia is truly a dream destination for every traveler.

Reveal the Beautiful Truth of Life

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Among the continents of the world, Asia has a specific place as a naturally rich and beautiful continent. For sight seeing and for shopping amazing things this place is famous among the tourists of the world. There are a lot for you reveal in the wonders of the Asia including all its natural and man-made objects and places.

Asia is composed of certain amazingly beautiful countries like that of India, China, Thailand, Korea, Japan and Hong Kong. In India you will get to see one of the best out of the Seven Wonders of the World, the Taj Mahal. This has been termed as the “Symbol of Love” and is superb for being visited by tourists. Another wonder of the world The Great Wall of China is situated in China. This is actually a protective wall, 6400 km along the border of the country.

Other must sees in Asia are the Mount Everest, Ajanta Ellora, Baikal lake, Petronas Twin Towers of Malaysia, Flaming cliffs, the Angkor Wat in Cambodia, Dead Sea, Phang Nga Bay, Osaka Castle, Shanghai Financial Centre, Bukit Timah Nature Reserve and many other. For great aesthetic beauty and the capacity to give peace of mind these sites are just worth watching.

For sun bath and fun in the shores you can choose to go to the Southeast Asia. For having beautiful beaches in the world Indonesia, Thailand, the Philippines and Malaysia are famous. The tropical climate of this region is also a point of attraction for the tourists.

Another man-made attractive place is Hong Kong where you can visit the new Hong Kong Disneyland. Visiting this place with your family will be great. However, Asian cuisines have always been a center of attraction for the tourist as the natural spices and food items found in it are quite rare. Every Asian food has a variety in it and tastes quite delicious and unmatchable.

After visiting this place for once, no one would be able to forget the wonders of the Asia in his life time.

Extraordinary Place to Visit

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Traveling in Asia is a journey and adventure encompassing a wide range of countries, nightlife, restaurants, places of interest due to their historical value, and cultures. From China and Japan to countries such as Vietnam, India, Burma, Uzbekistan, and more, Asia is a place where a visitor can experience many different cultures and countries, each with it's own history, own background, unique values and regulations, and it's own opportunities for exciting, new escapades. The first thing for a person who plans to be a guest of Asia to do is to decide on which country or countries to visit; and, with the number of choices to pick from as far as the continent goes, picking just one or a few, though a pleasurable task, isn't a thing many would find easy to do.

A visitor to any Asian country should become familiar with the customs, culture, and places of interest available at their intended destination and carry plenty of credit cards, differing denominations of cash, and other forms of monetary resources. Guests of Asia can plan on coming across plenty of nightspots, museums, other historical venues of note, many wonderful restaurants, and other such places to spend their money. Each country within the continent of Asia is an undertaking to explore in and of itself, and travelers are in for a pleasant, relaxing, luxurious experience no matter which of them they choose from. Inside many countries in Asia, a trip to some of the popular restaurants inside a city or municipality can be an unbelievably sensual undergoing in terms of the quality of the culinary delights available to the guest, the promptness of service, and the authenticity of the
dishes presented.

In addition to the sumptuous, incalculably authentic food many of those who plan to become guests of Asia can look forward to enjoying on their trips into their intended destinations, the landscape of most, if not all, Asian countries is another beauteous thing to look forward to. The beautiful bays, impeccable views of the ocean, ceaseless deserts, winding rivers, tropical flora and fauna, and snow-capped mountains which dot the land within Asia and throughout all of the countries inside of it can, certainly more often than not, be sights unparalleled to visitor to Asia who have the opportunity to see them. The natural diversity of the scenery and the plants and animals within it is altogether an earthy, unspoiled happening to flock to any Asian country to be a part of.

Lovely scenery and filling, nutritious dishes aside, another bright spot all Asian countries contain are the places visitors come to see for their historical value. Places like the Taj Mahal, the Great Wall of China, Hiroshima, Nagasaki, ancient palaces, and residences belonging to long dead maharajahs are locations a significant number of people visit not to gain a thrill, but for the thrill of being at such locations which have such strong ties to the past and such a deep, real sense of meaning to the countries and civilizations which had a hand in making them. Asia is an extraordinary place to visit.

Magnificent Asia

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From Mount Everest, the planet earth’s highest mountain, to Tokyo, the most populated metropolis in the world, Asia is a land of grand proportions. Asia contains more than half of the human population of the world and spreads geographically over a huge area. Most of Asia’s boundaries are water: the Pacific Ocean to the east, the Arctic Ocean to the north, the continent of Europe to the west, the Red Sea to the southwest and the Indian Ocean to the south.

Asia’s diversity of cultures and landscapes creates an irresistible draw for travelers. Ultramodern bustling mega cities like Tokyo and Hong Kong occupy one end of the spectrum, while tiny remote villages in areas such as the Himalayas reside near the opposite end. Asia is naturally infused with spiritual places, as it is the birthplace of so many religions. Deities from Buddhism and Hinduism abound, and in many Middle Eastern locales, visitors should make themselves familiar with Islamic traditions so as not to offend.

The options for vacations in Asia vary widely, from lovely secluded beaches, to orthodox cities, to jungles with ancient monuments, to vast snow-covered mountains. For air travelers, the airports with the largest number of connecting flights are in Bangkok, Dubai, Hong Kong, Singapore, and Tokyo. The modes of ground travel available are almost too numerous to list, but include train, bus, taxi, rental car, ferry, water taxi, aerial tram and rickshaw.

Many of the world’s greatest wonders can be found in Asia. The famous Great Wall of China and India’s spectacular Taj Mahal are two of the better-known attractions, but many visitors come to see lesser-known sights. The fascinating temple ruins of Angkor in Cambodia, the modern Olympic venues in Beijing which were built for the 2008 games and the park-like grounds of the Imperial Palace in Tokyo are but a few of Asia’s plentiful sights.

Asia’s diversity of delectable food is another draw for visitors. From India’s fiery curries, to Thailand’s fresh local seafood, to Japan’s udon and ramen noodles, to the hummous and grains of the Middle East, the cuisine of Asia will satisfy the gastronomic dreams of every traveler.

Travel in Asia, the most diverse continent on the planet, is endlessly fascinating and rewarding!

The Best Place of Asia

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Welcome to Asia the best place! Plan a trip to explore what the continent of Asia has stored for travelers- from the mystical land and plethora of natural beauties to beautiful landscape, from idyllic sea resorts to rolling hills, from lush green forests to gentle breezes showering aroma of spices and flowers, Asia has it all. Undoubtedly, no other continent boasts greater extremes than Asia. Being home to many such geographic blessings it also boast for its rich cultural histories. Asia has also grounded many spiritual place infused with the gods of past and present. You’ll be amaze to discover the unique flavors of several religions such as the Hinduism, Islam, Buddhism and many more. Don’t miss the Architectural wonders and sacred spaces abound from the temples of Angkor or the Great Wall of China. Myanmar, Nepal and Afghanistan have managed to flaunt for having some of rich architectural wonders and amazing structures. For discovering Asian continent all you need to do is to open your eyes, mind and heart and experience its unique flavor.

Mind blowing landscaping makes Asia the best place, discover the sublime coastlines to snow capped mountains, rolling landscapes fed by the monsoon rains and the beautiful cities. Discover the aroma of spices and flowers from India or the household shrines in Thailand imparting a sweet perfume to the thick air. One cannot miss the highlights from trekking Malaysia’s steamy jungles or explore the rich wildlife nestled along the southern India. It will be a unique experience to ride horses through the Mongolian steppes or skiing through the Japan’s Alps and dodging falling coconuts on of the continents of many remote islands. Food is something that hits the traveler’s list, try out some of lip smacking Indian curries or gulp at the local dish from a roadside stall or try out the hearty bowl of Japanese ramen. With its colors, smells, flavors, cultures and personalities, you’ll find Asia is deliciously rewarding experience. Generally, most demanding and loved places to visit the Asian countries are- Bali, China, India, Singapore, Thailand, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Maldives, Nepal, Philippines, Japan and United Arab Emirates.

Among all the best places of Asia, China takes a privilege to boast for having the most ancient civilization in the world. Among the most appreciating things are the barren highlands of Tibet via the Silk Road to the bewildering Forbidden City at Beijing or the well-known Great Wall of China or the magnificent numerous thousands of Terracotta Warriors and Horses at the tomb of Qin Shi'huang in Xi'an. Lifestyle of Shanghai or the breath-taking scenic beauty of Yunnan and the beautiful landscape forms enough of reason among the travelers to give a repeated visit.

Hong Kong makes Asia the best place, however the country is not cheap but it offers many interesting sites to offers to their visitors. Shopping malls, shopping complexes, roadside shops or street shopping attract the shopaholics. Efficient transportation facility enhances the visitors to have smooth journey while planning for shopping or for sight seeing. Hong Kong is all about its breathtaking view and listening to local tunes while slurping your noodles.

Thailand, Philippines, Indonesia and India are known for its various attractive places of visit, home to many adventure sports and Asia’s best places to visit. Treat for history lovers should not miss to discover the history and culture of India. Don’t miss the Golden Triangle; comprising of Delhi, Agra and Jaipur. Indonesia and India is highly blessed with authentic beaches, take out some time to glare the wonderful seaside while soaking some sun or cherish at the views of lovely beautiful pine forests, babbling streams or orchards.

Japan is all set to take your breath away with its high-speed trains taking you from one end of the country to another with few seconds of time. Make sure to visit the karaoke bars or view at the mountain top temples or spend some worth full time at Zen garden. Adventurous lovers will lover Nepal; the gigantic Himalayan Mountains is
known to be one of the prime spot of attraction to give repeated visit. Get yourself engaged with mountaineering, trekking or white-water rafting along the steep mountain rivers.

A Jewel to Explore

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Asia is one of the most exotic destinations in the world, having one of the oldest and most advanced cultures known to man, steeped in ancient arts, a people wrapped in mystery, dance, dress, and customs, representing centuries of learning and tradition. The land is filled with old world traditions nurtured by time and unique architecture, art and culture are one in Asia, it is a continent of great majesty and practicality.

Asia the world’s largest producer of rice also possesses the Great Wall of China, a big continent known for big things, sky high mountains covered in clouds and mystic sun, others reaching into the clouds affixed with staircases carved into the rocks from centuries past; where evening brings solitude and sunrise brings the world. Asia a place were the temperature can go from burning sun to freezing cold in the distance of a few hours.

Asia holds a jewel for shopper’s Japan; it is also a technological giant. Goods are made on the continent of Asia and shipped around the globe. Asia supplies the world with computers; televisions, sewing needles and the list can go on. You will find the label, “made in Japan,” on a list of worldly goods. The continent that was once shrouded in complete mystery is out doing business with the world, but the mystery still remains. Like the stairways carved into the mountains, a part of the land that is Asia.

There are lovely beaches, plush green valleys, colorful Rickshaws lining the streets, and high-rise buildings scaling the skyline. Modern cities intertwined with a culture centuries old, but somehow the different worlds have agreed to co-exist.

To visit the Asian world might once upon a time have been a culture shock but the world has been reduced in size and thought by jet liners, modern day ships, and the World Wide Web. The culture of Asia is still a mystery, not because it is so far but because it is so deep. It is not possible to understand such a diverse land overnight, but one can spend time and thought to get a grasp. Just as so many centuries ago the Asian continent was a jewel to explore. So it is today.