Yet beneath the brash modernity beats an ancient heart.
This is still the realm of the exquisite art of the geisha and the skill of the sumo wrestler; where ancient festivals are celebrated and food is elevated to an art form. And Japan is still a land of great natural beauty, from the snow festivals and lavender farms of the northern isle of Hokkaido to the sun-drenched beaches of the subtropical south.
Whether you choose to climb Mount Fuji or relax at volcanic hot spring resorts, Japan is unforgettable.
China's social riches and 5,000 years of tumultuous history place it among the world's greatest travel destinations. The Great Wall, X'ian's Terracotta Army, the Forbidden Palace and Tiananmen Square: the very names reverberate with history and legend. From acrobatics to martial arts, calligraphy to Chinese opera, the vibrant, distinctive culture of this great land is everywhere to be seen.
China's capital, Beijing, is facing great investment in both tourism infrastructure and historical renovation due to the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games. Shanghai is another favourite, as one of the world's largest cities and one of China's most famous.
European-style architecture
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Exploring Asia is the perfect way to escape and discover an ancient culture that is so different to anything you've experienced before.
About the Author
Karen Cooke is a professional consultant with travel Associates, an exclusive Australian travel agency catering to the premium travel market. More helpful travel tips and suggestions are available at http://www.travel-associates.com.au