Asiahop’s blog
The most original places in China and Japan
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The force of the wind and sea in Aoshima
On the eastern coast of Kyūshū lies Miyazaki Prefecture, a region with tourist attractions such as Takachiho Gorge, Udo Shrine, and the Nishitachi restaurant and entertainment district. But one of the most impressive places in Miyazaki is the small island of Aoshima, just over half an hour by train from the prefectural capital. Aoshima is…
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Xiaolongbao, Shanghai’s culinary treasure
Xiaolongbao is one of the most recognisable and delicious dishes in Chinese cuisine. They consist of thin wheat dough filled with different ingredients and traditionally steamed in small bamboo baskets. What is Xiaolongbao? There are several characteristics that distinguish Xiaolongbao from other similar steamed dough dishes. With a delicate, very thin, almost transparent dough, the…
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Chongqing’s Luohan Temple
Among the steep streets of Chongqing (重庆), one of China’s largest cities, lies an oasis of serenity that transports visitors to centuries past. Luohan Temple (罗汉寺), also known as Arhat Temple is one of the oldest Buddhist temples in China, offering a unique spiritual experience amid the fast-paced atmosphere of this modern metropolis in southwest…
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Nihon Sankei, Japan’s 3 best scenic views
The Japanese love to make lists of three to highlight places in their geography, elements of their culture, or products of their cuisine, among other things. In previous posts, we have already talked about food lists, such as the Nihon Sandai Rāmen (日本三大ラーメン), with the three best ramen in Japan (Sapporo Ramen from Hokkaido, Hakata…
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The charm of Hongcun, the hidden gem of Anhui
Located in Anhui province (安徽), eastern China, the ancient village of Hongcun (宏村) represents one of the country’s best-preserved cultural treasures. This settlement, with more than 900 years of history and declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000, offers visitors an authentic immersion in traditional China, far from the hustle and bustle of large…
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Fujian Tulou, unique Chinese architecture
The Fujian Tulou (土楼) are ancestral fortresses historically inhabited by family clans. Circular or rectangular at the base, they are built with earth and wood, have several stories high, and have been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2008. Still inhabited, some Tulou date back to the 12th century. And their shapes do not leave…
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Nakasendo Trail through the Japanese Alps
The Nakasendō Route (中山道), which literally means “road through the mountains,” was one of the five major highways of the Edo period (1603–1868), connecting Edo (modern-day Tokyo) with Kyoto. Unlike other routes that followed the coastline, such as the Tōkaidō, the Nakasendō cut through the mountainous interior of the country, stretching over 500 kilometers and…
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How to Pay in China
Traveling to China today means encountering one of the most advanced societies when it comes to digital payments. Cash has barely been used for over 10 years. Everything is paid for with a mobile phone. While the yuan in its paper and coin version is still legally required to be accepted, in reality, many businesses…
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What to see and do in Osaka when you don’t have much time
Osaka is a city that deserves several days to get to know it beyond the surface. Its blend of history, lively urban life and one of Japan’s best food scenes make it a very complete destination. However, many travellers can only visit it in passing, taking advantage of its excellent location and train and plane…
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The agency that takes you to China and Japan: ‘We use psychology to ensure people have their ideal trip.’
If there is one thing these two entrepreneurs have in common, it is that Asia has captured their hearts. With that as their starting point, they have just launched Asiahop, an online agency that plans personalised trips. A journalist by training, consultant and now entrepreneur. Diego Bergantiños’ journey reached a new milestone just a few…