Asiahop’s blog
The most original places in China and Japan
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Sichuan, land of spicy food, mountains and panda bears
Sichuan (四川), whose name means “Four Rivers,” is one of China’s most fascinating provinces. Located in the southwest of the country, this region captivates travelers with its rich history, stunning natural landscapes, cultural heritage, and, of course, its world-famous cuisine. Located in southwest China, Sichuan borders Qinghai Province and the Tibet Autonomous Region to the
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Castle routes in Japan
There are around 100 castles in Japan, most of which were built between the 15th and 17th centuries. Centres of political, military and administrative power, they have withstood civil wars, clan attacks, internal rebellions and devastating fires. During the turbulent Sengoku period, they offered defence and strategic control, and in the Edo period, they symbolised
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Let’s go to Okinawa! Not just beaches
The Okinawa archipelago is a region of Japan where you will discover a culture very different from the rest of the country. The Ryūkyū Islands, the name given to the group of islands stretching from the south of Kyūshū to the vicinity of Taiwan, has an enviable subtropical climate all year round and a very
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15 day China route in 2026 (easy)
If you are planning a two week route for China for your first visit to this country, keep reading. Here we detail an ideal plan for your 15 day China itinerary. And if you want to know when it is the best time to travel to China check our guide here. Where do I start?
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Chinese gastronomy
A Journey Through Ancient Flavors Chinese cuisine, with over 5,000 years of history, represents one of the oldest and most complex culinary traditions in the world. What we know today as Chinese cuisine is the result of centuries of evolution, adaptation, and innovation that have given rise to a universe of flavors, techniques, and culinary
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What to see in Nikkō and how to get there from Tokyo
One of the most popular natural destinations accessible from Tokyo is Nikkō, a small town in Tochigi Prefecture that is home to one of Japan’s most unique and best-preserved religious sites in the midst of stunning nature. Nikkō National Park (日光国立公園) covers a large area and there are several hiking trails to enjoy its lakes,
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Winter in Yamagata, a dream prefecture
Visiting Yamagata in winter is like being immersed in a fairytale. Easily accessible from Tokyo thanks to the Shinkansen, its main tourist attractions are Ginzan Onsen, Dewa Sanzan and Yamadera, as well as the so-called snow monsters of Zao Onsen, a place famous for its hot springs and ski resort. If you love the snow
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What to see in Chongqing in 2026
In the heart of southwest China, surrounded by mountains and bathed by the Yangtsé and Jialing rivers, the city of Chongqing (重庆, Chongqìng), one of the four municipalities under central jurisdiction of the country with Beijing, Shanghai and Tianjin is majestically. This megaciudad, known as the “mountain city” or “city of the fog”, represents one
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Hainan, China’s tropical paradise
Hainan Island (海南岛, Hǎinán Dǎo) is known as the “Hawaii of China” for its stunning white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and tropical climate. This destination, still undiscovered by many Western travelers, offers a perfect combination of Asian exoticism, unique Chinese culture, and the comforts of an international tourist destination. Privileged Climate Year-Round Hainan enjoys a tropical
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Kanazawa, Japan’s Hidden Gem You Must Discover
On Japan’s west coast, bathed by the Sea of Japan, lies Kanazawa (金沢), a city that has preserved its historical essence while embracing modernity. Known as ‘Little Kyoto’, Kanazawa offers travellers an authentic experience off the beaten track, preserving the cultural legacy of the Edo period with a delicacy that few other Japanese cities have