Asiahop’s blog
The most original places in China and Japan
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The Forbidden City of Beijing
In the center of Beijing (北京), the capital of China, stands one of the world’s most impressive architectural jewels: the Forbidden City (Zijin Cheng, 紫禁城). This impressive palace complex, a symbol of Chinese imperial power for almost five centuries, continues to fascinate millions of visitors who cross its imposing crimson walls to enter a world…
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The Chinese currency, the yuan
The Official Currency of China The official currency of China, the yuan (元), also known as renminbi (人民币, “people’s currency”), is a fascinating element of Chinese culture that reflects both its rich history and rapid modernization. For travelers planning to explore this Asian giant, understanding this currency is essential for a smooth experience. The History…
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Traveling to China from Spain
China, that vast territory that combines ancient tradition with dizzying modernity, has become an increasingly popular destination among Spanish travelers. The Land of the Dragon (龙) offers a range of experiences, from the majesty of the Great Wall (长城) to the futuristic skyscrapers of Shanghai (上海). If you’re planning your trip to China from Spain,…
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Three different things to do in Tokyo
Tokyo offers tourists endless options. Even if you’re returning for the tenth time, you’ll always find something new that won’t cease to surprise you. Trying to define the most important things to do is a very complicated task, as there are endless tourist options in Tokyo’s main neighborhoods. At the same time, there are places…
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Dōgo Onsen, the oldest hot spring bathhouse in Japan
Dōgo Onsen (道後温泉), one of the most legendary and admired hot springs in Japan, is located in the city of Matsuyama, in Ehime Prefecture. The famous public bathhouse was built in 1894, and in addition to the renowned quality of its waters, the building itself boasts impressive architecture. After nearly six years of renovation, the…
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Shikoku’s untamed side in the heart of Iya Valley
If you’re looking for a remote, peaceful, and authentic place in Japan with breathtaking natural scenery, the Iya Valley is your perfect escape.What you’ll find in this region are towering mountains with forest-covered peaks that change color beautifully with the seasons.The valley — or rather, the various valleys carved out by the Iya River and…
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How to pay in Japan
One of the most surprising curiosities when traveling through Japan is the widespread use of cash for many transactions, despite being one of the most technologically advanced economies in the world. Behind this behavior lie cultural, historical, and economic reasons. Japanese people have great trust in their monetary and banking system, and it’s also a…
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My neighbor the volcano — Sakurajima
It is well known that the Japanese are used to living with numerous natural hazards due to the country’s location within the Pacific Ring of Fire, a region of intense geodynamic activity where the majority of the world’s volcanoes are concentrated. Japan has more than 300 identified volcanoes, around a hundred of which are considered…
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Yakushima, a natural paradise
“I have crossed mountains and rivers to get here. I have never seen a place so pure and full of life.” This quote from Ashitaka, the protagonist of Princess Mononoke, reflects the essence of Yakushima Island, where Hayao Miyazaki drew inspiration to create this cinematic masterpiece. With its ancient forests and millennia-old trees, this Pacific…
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What to eat across Japan
Japanese cuisine is one of the most varied and exquisite in the world. One of the first things that stands out when you visit the country is that the dishes we’re used to seeing in Japanese restaurants in the West don’t always match what people actually eat there on a daily basis. It’s true that…
The most original places in China and Japan
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