Asiahop’s blog
The most original places in China and Japan
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Diary of a 15-day trip through Kyūshū
Irene and Pedro have traveled with Asiahop to the island of Kyūshū. This is their second trip to Japan. A few years ago they were in Tokyo and Kyoto and fell in love with the country, so they promised to come back to see other places beyond the traditional routes. When they contacted us they
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Matcha Tea, the complete guide to Japanese green gold
Matcha tea (抹茶) has become a worldwide sensation, but few truly know its fascinating history and ancient tradition. If you’re planning a trip to Japan or simply want to discover this culinary treasure, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about matcha tea. What is matcha tea and what is its
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Kumano Kodo routes
The Kumano Kodo (熊野古道) is a set of ancient pilgrimage routes that run through the mountains of the Kii Peninsula in southern Japan. They connect important Shinto shrines known as the Three Great Kumano Shrines or Kumano Sanzan: Hongu Taisha, Nachi Taisha and Hayatama Taisha. Its origins date back to the Heian period (794-1185), when
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Traveling with children to China
Embarking on a trip to China with children may seem daunting at first, but the reality is that the Middle Country (中国, Zhōngguó) offers an extraordinary family experience that will combine learning, fun, and wonder for all family members. Proper planning will ensure an unforgettable experience as you navigate this fascinating Asian destination. Getting around
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How to use the Japan Rail Pass in 2026
One of the best options to move comfortably around Japan is to use the Japan Rail Pass, a pass that allows you to use all types of trains of the JR network (both Shinkansen and other types of trains) without having to pay for each ticket and, depending on your destinations, will allow you to
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Introduction to ramen
At Asiahop, we’ve prepared this introduction to ramen (ラーメン) so you can learn the essentials before traveling to Japan and enjoy your culinary experiences to the fullest. Here, you’ll find a visual tour of the best types of ramen in Japan, accompanied by photographs. We also share the fascinating history of ramen, its traditional ingredients,
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Basic Japanese vocabulary for traveling to Japan
One of the most frequently asked questions when planning a trip to Japan is whether you need to know Japanese to move around the country, and the short answer is that it is not necessary. Japan is very well prepared to receive tourists and it is possible to move around without complications, especially in the
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15-day tour of Japan
If you’re planning a two-week trip to Japan on your first visit, here’s an itinerary that mixes the best-known routes with some special places to make your trip unforgettable. Although the prices are approximate, you can also check the approximate budget you need for your 15-day trip to Japan, both for flights and for accommodation
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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