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What to see in Japan

The imperial city and former national capital preserves some of the best temples in Japan, with its zen gardens, such as the Golden Pavillion Kinkaju-ji. The Higashiyama area still captures the atmosphere of old Tokyo, with its cobbled streets and range of pagodas, whilst in Shimbashi the traditions of geishas and tea houses are still very much alive.
If you decide to visit Kyoto, be prepared to see a side of Japan you may not expect. Unlike Tokyo, Kyoto has retained its more traditional appearance in districts such as Gion. The city boasts so many temples and is surrounded by such stunning parks and gardens that all the time you spend there will seem like too little. So take note of the essential sites we recommend at Exoticca.
<h2>What to see in Kyoto</h2>
<h3>Travelling to Kyoto to find oneself</h3>
Even if you travel in summer, Kyoto is full of places to meditate. And we are not only referring to its temples, but also to its parks and gardens. This is one of the most visited cities in Japan and you will find locals and foreigners in the streets dressed up as geishas and samurais. The good news is that the Japanese, who tend to tour around their own country a good deal, are very polite and respectful, so you can stop and meditate in any of these places:
Kiyomizudera Temple
This is an enormous wooden temple supported by hundreds of huge columns built with no nails. Join the queue at the nearby fountain and collect the water that comes directly from the spring. The walk up to the temple from the city takes you through a traditional cemetery. But don't worry, Japanese cemeteries are nothing like Western ones and the differences are worth noting. Once at the top of the hill, soak up the views of the city.
Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka
After the visit to Kiyomizudera, you'll have to descend to the centre again. The custom is to do this by walking down the narrow streets of Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka, flanked by traditional shops and houses. You'll find all kinds of gifts here and lots of people taking pictures. If you're up early enough, you can take some incredible photographs and savour the architecture as if you've travelled back in time.
<h3>The golden pavilion or Kinkaku-ji and the gardens of Ryoan-ji</h3>
If you're going to Kyoto, you mustn't miss the golden pavilion. Our advice is to get up very early so you can enter with the first group. This building, with its roofs decorated in gold leaf and surrounded by a beautiful lake which reflect it like a mirror, is one of the city's main attractions. It's not unusual to find large groups of students here taking pictures and studying the history of their country. It's worth visiting, despite the crowds.
Next to it are the Ryoan-ji gardens, a large park where you can relax and even get lost. Everywhere you go in Japan is well marked with maps, but the beauty of this garden is labyrinthine, so pay attention to where you are going.
<h3>Travelling to Kyoto to meet up with the past: the Gion district</h3>
Kyoto is one of the major Japanese cities where traditions have been best preserved. Walking around the Gion district is a delight not only because of its traditional buildings but also because of the possibility of meeting, even today, an authentic geisha. These women, in clothes and make up from the Edo period, will allow you to photograph them, but it is better to ask their permission and not keep them waiting. Remember, they're working, and may be in a hurry.
<h3>Fushimi Innari Shrine</h3>
To get here you will have to take a train, but the journey takes only five minutes and you'll never forget it. This shrine occupies an entire hill, where you pass between hundreds of red toriis marking out the path to the top. The itinerary is impressive, full of sculptures dedicated to the goddess Inari and funerary monuments that blend into the forest. Photographs are allowed, but don't forget that this is a sacred place. Respect is fundamental.
<h3>Arashiyama Bamboo Forest</h3>
Japan is known for many things, including the extensive use of bamboo to build furniture, boats and all manner of utensils. Arashiyama is a bamboo forest outside the city centre, although you can walk there if the thought of long walks does not deter you. Once there, you can go deep into the high plants, visit the many temples hidden among them, take a boat ride or have tea in one of the area's many caf&eacute;s. Mind the mosquitoes, though! These humid areas are their favourite place.
<h3>How to get around if you decide to visit Kyoto</h3>
Unlike Osaka or Tokyo, where the metro is recommended, one of the best ways to get around Kyoto is by bus, unless you are in a hurry. They are slow because of the traffic, but it is the best way to get a broader impression of what the city is like. Of course, Kyoto also has a metro system with stops at the biggest tourist attractions.

The emblematic mountain is the highest in the country at 3,776 metres. It is a tradition for all Japanese people to climb the mountain at least once in their life, where they can pray in the sanctuary at the summit. A great many pilgrims make the climb in summer.

Nara is one of the most visited cities in Japan, and it is no accident that it has achieved this honor. Visiting Nara is like traveling back in time. If you arrive by train, you'll see the newest part of the city, but you only have to climb a small slope to enter the most magical place in Japan. An accumulation of fields, woods, temples, and small hidden-away altars. Set aside at least one full day for your visit and take a break for a plate of ramen. You'll be ready for it.
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<h2>First port of call in Nara: feeding the deer in the park</h2>
Nara Park is immense and most of its inhabitants are sacred deer. You'll see plenty of signs to warn you that they are dangerous right next to the mobile cookie sellers. These cookies are the only food you should offer the animals. When they see you holding them, they'll come to you to be fed. Don't misunderstand them: they are not friendly animals, but they are very polite. They know you're going to feed them in exchange for a photo and they'll pose for you. But they will be off as soon as you run out of food!
Be careful, these animals are protected. They're considered to be messengers of the gods and perhaps this is why they have developed a somewhat capricious character.&nbsp;
The park is so big that you're unlikely to have time to see the whole thing. But if you've seen enough temples, head down to the lower area. Nara's young manga and anime fans gather in the park dressed as their favorite characters and it's not uncommon to see groups of cosplayers doing photo shoots. If you ask their permission, they'll let you take pictures too.
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<h2>Todai-ji Temple</h2>
The Todai-ji is one of Nara's best-known temples. It's famous for its huge Buddha and its large gateway. One of the traditions is to pass through a hole that goes through the wood of one of the pillars sustaining the Buddha. The hole is exactly the same size as one of the giant statue's nostrils. And why do tourists and worshippers pass through this hole? Because whoever does so is blessed by the Buddha.&nbsp;
Take the opportunity to burn some incense sticks in the courtyard on your way out, but do so with respect. Those who pray here are the devout faithful who take their religion very seriously, while you are just passing through.&nbsp;
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<h2>Kasuga-Taisha Shrine</h2>
Many of those who decide to visit Nara think that they can see the Kasuga-Taisha quickly, but nothing could be further from the truth. Once you pass through the entrance torii, which is more modest than at other temples, you'll find yourself in a magical enclosure. The path up from the park to the temple area is adorned with dozens of large stone lanterns. And inside the Kasuga-Taisha there are hundreds of lanterns of all sizes. The stone lanterns are impressive, but the metal ones that hang along every single corridor seem to come straight out of some traditional tale. If you have decided to visit Nara in early February or mid-August you may be lucky enough to witness the Setsubun Mantoro or Obon Mantoro festivals, respectively. During these periods the bronze and stone lanterns are simultaneously lit. The spectacle is unparalleled.
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<h2>Kofuku-ji Temple Pagoda</h2>
Pagodas are one of the many attractions at a considerable number of tourist sites all over Japan. Traveling to Nara means you can visit the five-story pagoda that is part of Kofuku-ji temple. The temple, for its part, is the oldest in the world built of wood.&nbsp;
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<h2>Naramachi, the samurai district</h2>
Naramachi, the old commercial district of Nara, retains its narrow alleyways and traditional houses. What used to warehouse have become a craft and gift shops. If you want to buy a truly traditional souvenir, look for a calligraphy workshop. There are several in this area. They sell special paper, brushes as big as brooms and as small as cotton buds for the ears. Nara's stationery stores are also a good place to find a less typical souvenir. Although almost everyone tends to choose a hanging monkey, or migawari-zaru, an ornament you will see in most Naramachi houses.&nbsp;
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<h2>Koshi-no-le, a traditional residence</h2>
If you want to know what life in feudal Japan was like, go inside this traditional house. The entrance is free.

At the heart of Japan&rsquo;s Kansai region, on the island of Honshu, lies Osaka, the second-largest city in the country after Tokyo. An immense metropolis known for its thriving port and importance as a center for trade and commerce, a holiday to Osaka opens up a world of culture and an uncensored taste of Japanese life. Famed for its gastronomic prowess, Osaka is a mecca for foodies; it packs a punch when it comes to its exciting food scene and trend-setting restaurants. If you&rsquo;re unsure what to do in Osaka, then eating your way around the city is a good place to start.
Historically the &lsquo;nations kitchen&rsquo;, Osaka was once the center of rice distribution in Japan, an important measure of wealth, and ever since, the city has expanded into a fast-paced urban sprawl of unlimited opportunities. Although much of the remnants of the past have fallen in favor of modernity, it is the atmosphere of the place, enthusiastic and lively, which charms visitors who choose a tour of Osaka. You can expect gravity-defying skyscrapers, neon lights aplenty and a plethora of entertainment, shopping and leisure activities. The neighborhood of Dotonbori is foodie heaven, whilst Kitashinchi is the nightlife hub, with enough bars, nightclubs and karaoke bars to keep any visitor partying until the early hours!
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<h2>Highlights of Osaka</h2>
If you are wondering what to see in Osaka, a tour is a great way to get an overview of the main sights and attractions of the city. One of the most emblematic and photographed buildings in the city is Osaka Castle, an amazing reconstruction of the original 16th-century castle which once stood on the same spot. With an amazing moat, guarding the majestic white castle, and lush gardens surrounding the site, it&rsquo;s the perfect place to spend a sunny afternoon.
If you are lucky enough to take a trip to Osaka during the springtime, you&rsquo;ll find the gardens awash with cherry blossom trees and cheerful locals enjoying the fleeting beauty of the sakura. Another of the last remaining historic sights to see on an Osaka tour is the ornate Shitennoji Buddhist Temple, dating back to the 6th-century and a tranquil retreat from the bustling city center. When it comes to architecture, Osaka&rsquo;s Umeda Sky Building is an icon of the city. Comprised of two 40-story towers, these awe-inspiring modern structures are connected by giant bridges and make a great backdrop for one-of-a-kind photo opportunities.
Lovers of culture should head to the Kuronmon Ichiba Market, where Japanese gastronomy and culture combine, whilst nature lovers can find wildlife amidst the city sprawl in the Osaka Aquarium, one of the largest in the world and a great rainy-day activity. Of course, you cannot forget the Universal Studios Japan theme-park, the much loved movie-themed attraction with a Japanese twist. There is so much to do in Osaka, you&rsquo;ll be spoilt for choice!

In the shadow of Mount Fuji lies Tokyo, the Japanese capital, the world&rsquo;s most populous metropolis and a city like no other. This vast city is high on the must-visit lists of all travelers for its non-stop atmosphere as well as the glimpses of Japanese history and culture that are waiting to be uncovered if you know where to look. An organic entity, Tokyo&rsquo;s urban sprawl takes on a life of its own and it&rsquo;s easy to lose your bearings amidst the neon signs and skyscrapers, but that&rsquo;s all part of the fun of a trip to Tokyo.
Stretching for over 2000 square-kilometers, this immense megalopolis consists of 23 central districts, including Central Tokyo and Old Tokyo, known as Shitamachi. From the dazzling lights of youthful Shibuya and Harajuku to the temples of Asakusa and the majestic Imperial Palace of Chiyoda, the seat of Japanese power, the city&rsquo;s diversity is its main appeal. One of the most surprising aspects of the city is its humble beginnings. Once a small castle town called Edo, today, you can still trace Tokyo&rsquo;s modest beginnings and historic legacy in Shibamata or Taito, two of the more traditional neighborhoods that nod towards the days of the Edo era. A trip to Tokyo is sure to include a good deal of delicious Japanese food and the city&rsquo;s gastronomic scene is simply unbeatable. I
t&rsquo;s incredibly easy to find good eats in Tokyo; just follow the locals and chow down on freshly rolled sushi or handmade noodles. Tokyo&rsquo;s super-efficient and accessible subway system might appear a little daunting on the first inspection, but it&rsquo;s the key to exploring the city&rsquo;s wealth of sights, so you&rsquo;re sure to make use of it if you take a tour of Tokyo.&nbsp;
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<h2>What to see in Tokyo</h2>
Faced with such an enormous city, it can be challenging to choose where to start when it comes to things to see in Tokyo. Keep in mind that some of the most eye-opening and memorable parts of a Tokyo holiday will probably happen when you&rsquo;re traveling between sights or simply strolling aimlessly through the city&rsquo;s neon-lit neighborhoods. Tokyo is all about &lsquo;experiencing&rsquo; rather than &lsquo;doing&rsquo;. Nevertheless, there are a number of top sights in Tokyo to fit into your itinerary.&nbsp;
The Meiji Shrine, dedicated to the spirits of Emperor Meiji and his wife, is a beautiful traditional Shinto shrine, located in the neighborhood of Shibuya. Nestled within a thick evergreen forest, it&rsquo;s the perfect place to enjoy a laid-back stroll and gain an insight into the traditional beliefs of Japanese Shintoism. Undoubtedly the most popular district in the city for visitors on a tour of Tokyo is Asakusa, which stands out from the rest of the city for its historic streets and remarkably well-preserved traditional architecture.
This is the Tokyo of yesteryear and a trip to Tokyo is incomplete without visiting this part of the city. Senso-ji Buddhist Temple is the highlight of the Asakusa district and the oldest temple in the city. For further historic delights, head to the Imperial Palace, in the district of Chiyoda. This stately castle complex is the primary residence of the Emperor of Japan and is surrounded by a serene moat and a large grassy park area. Although most visitors are not authorized to enter the buildings themselves, tours around the manicured gardens are popular and very scenic.&nbsp;
If you travel to Japan you probably want to experience the tranquil charms of a traditional Japanese garden, and Korakuen Garden, in Bunkyo, is Tokyo&rsquo;s best example of this. This 17th-century garden is a beautiful oasis of ponds, waterfalls and walking trails that lead visitors through areas of maple trees, cherry blossom, and plum trees. Gorgeous at any time of year, Korakue Garden is a little slice of zen amidst the hustle and bustle of modern Tokyo. If you&rsquo;re interested in the arts, then Tokyo is paradise, owing to its countless museums and galleries. There&rsquo;s something to suit all tastes, from the National Museum to the high-rise Mori Art Gallery, not to mention the seemingly endless array of pop-up exhibitions and galleries scattered throughout the city in buildings as diverse as former bathhouses and dilapidated warehouses. It&rsquo;s here you&rsquo;ll find the cutting-edge of Japanese art.&nbsp;
Finally, there are two things to do in Tokyo which are high on the lists of everyone who travels to Japan. The first is crossing the Shibuya Crossing, the world&rsquo;s most famous intersection and the quintessential image of Tokyo. Although the crowds can be overwhelming, it&rsquo;s the number one thing to do in Tokyo. Secondly, if you&rsquo;re lucky enough to travel to Japan in the springtime, you&rsquo;ll be able to see the fleeting beauty of Cherry Blossom, or hanami, season, usually between the end of March and the beginning of April. Shinjuku Gyoen and the Korakuen Gardens are just two of the locations where you can see this magical natural phenomenon in Tokyo.

Wonders of Nippon

Hiroshima, also called the city of peace, is the biggest in Chugoku. On 6th August 1945, the atomic bomb completely destroyed every building in the city centre, except what is currently known as the Hiroshima Atomic Bomb Dome, declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in recognition of the destruction of nuclear warfare in the city.

An off-the-beaten-track destination, nestled between the Sea of Japan and the Japanese Alps, Kanazawa is one of the best-preserved Edo-era cities in Japan and a true hidden gem, sometimes overlooked by visitors on a tour of Japan in favour of better-known destinations. This is unfortunate as Kanazawa is the centre of traditional Japanese culture and, having escaped the destruction of World War II air raids, much of its traditional architecture and monuments remain standing in their original splendour.
Nagamachi Samurai District and the geisha district of Higashi Chaya-Gai are just a few examples of Kanazawa&rsquo;s historic neighbourhoods, the latter of which is one of the few places in Japan where you can still experience the elegant art of the geisha in all its original beauty and talent. The capital of Ishikawa Prefecture, Kanazawa&rsquo;s museums, cultural institutions, historic districts, temples and landscaped gardens collaborate to make the city an unmissable stop on a tour of Japan.
A UNESCO City of Crafts and Folk Art, preserving traditional Japanese arts is at the heart of Kanazawa and it&rsquo;s here that you can partake in gold-leaf tea ceremonies or watch artisans creating hand-dyed silks or hand-painted ceramics as their ancestors have for centuries before them. Whether you visit in the warm summer months or the snow-laden winter season, visiting Kanazawa is easier than ever, using Japan&rsquo;s Rail System to travel from Tokyo, Kyoto or Osaka. Kanazawa is known for its delicious cuisine, particularly its traditional confectionary and seafood, so it&rsquo;s one of the best places in the country to sample authentic Japanese sushi.
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<h2>Things to see in Kanazawa</h2>
The mix of old and new makes exploring Kanazawa a fascinating and fun experience. There&rsquo;s countless things to see in Kanazawa, but a few stand out as unmissable. Kenrokuen Garden is surely at the top of the list when it comes to sights in Kanazawa. One of Japan&rsquo;s &lsquo;three most beautiful landscape gardens&rsquo;, Kenrokuen, constructed almost 200 years ago, is a shining example of the ancient art of Japanese landscape theory. Plum, cherry blossom and maple trees produce a vibrant palette of colours across all seasons and following a tranquil stroll throughout the gardens, visitors can stop at a number of charming teahouses to refresh themselves with traditional teas and daifuku or mochi. Be sure to see the huge Karasaki Pine, planted from a seed in the 13th-century, and Kasumiga-Ike Pond, the largest in the garden.
If you travel to Kanazawa hoping to experience the Japan of yesteryear, the Nagamachi Samurai District is a must-visit. Located close to the former Kanazawa Castle, this charming district used to house samurai and their families. Here, you can stroll through the narrow lanes, flanked by traditional dwellings, and gain an insight into the life of a samurai at Nomura Clan House, a restored samurai residence. Continue across the Asano River and you&rsquo;ll find yourself in Higashi Chaya Geisha District, established in 1820 as a teahouse and entertainment district to accommodate wealthy nobility and merchants. Walking its streets is like strolling through the set of the movie Memoir of a Geisha. A
s well as the traditional architecture, the district is home to a number of museums, souvenir shops and two public geisha teahouses, where you can watch the traditional arts and performances of elegant real-life geishas. Another fascinating relic of Kanazawa&rsquo;s past is the Myoruji Temple, a Buddhist temple built in the 17th-century. Its nickname of &lsquo;Nija Temple&rsquo; is a product of the quirky defence systems in place within the temple, including trap doors, secrets tunnels and hidden rooms, as the temple was designed to act as a disguised military outpost for Kanazawa Castle.
If you&rsquo;re also interested in discovering the cutting-edge Japan of the future, a trip to Kanazawa would be incomplete without exploring the immense 21st Century Museum. This contemporary art museum, housed within a conceptual modern building, is home to a plethora of mind-bending interactive installations and a great number of artworks by both Japanese and international artists. After exploring the sights of Kanazawa itself, an excellent day trip idea is to visit Shirakawago Village, an idyllic mountain village and UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Shogawa River Valley, composed of traditional peak-roofed wooden farmhouses. You can even stay overnight in one of the pretty farmhouses and the village is particularly beautiful during the heavy winter snowfall. Another thing to do in Kanazawa is to spend the night at one of the city&rsquo;s traditional onsens, old-style guesthouses complete with sliding doors and cosy floor cushions. This is the ultimate Japanese experience to complete any holiday to Japan.

Wonders of the Land of the Rising Sun

The biggest island in Thailand at 21 kilometres across, known as Pearl of the Andaman. Although this is one of the islands of Thailand which has seen the most tourism, there are still untouched corners of white sand to be discovered along its coastlines. Each beach is different and they are separated from one another by capes and hills. You can see the warm crystal waters of the Andaman sea along the length of the coast.

Phuket

Nippon Experience & Paradise in Phuket

The only capital city in the Maldives despite the number of islands that the country comprises. This is a small town, with all the charming houses contained in a very small space. The most striking building is the Friday Mosque, however the most enjoyable has to be a trip to the market, an essential trip to stock up on local produce and soak up the atmosphere.

Malé

Charms of Nippon & All-Inc. Maldives

A dreamy holiday paradise,&nbsp;Bali&nbsp;is the westernmost island in the&nbsp;Lesser Sundas, an island-group in&nbsp;<a title="Indonesia" href="https://www.exoticca.travel/asia/southeast-asia/indonesia">Indonesia</a>. Attracting travelers from across the globe,&nbsp;Bali&nbsp;stands out for its&nbsp;Hindu&nbsp;culture, excellent arts heritage and paradise beaches, as well as its reputation for having some of the world&rsquo;s most beautiful resorts and hotels, making it perfect for a tropical escape like no other.&nbsp;
A&nbsp;holiday to Bali&nbsp;consistently tops the charts of bucket-list destinations and this modestly sized island encompasses lush rainforests, vibrant cities, highland sanctuaries, and rugged&nbsp;Indian Ocean&nbsp;coastlines. The capital and largest city,&nbsp;Denpasar&nbsp;is the gateway from where most&nbsp;Balinese&nbsp;adventures begin.&nbsp;Ubud&nbsp;is the cultural heart of the island and a favorite of those who travel to&nbsp;Bali.&nbsp;
Here, a rich arts scene, bohemian vibes, lush hillside rice paddies, and countless monuments, temples and markets attract creative types from around the world.&nbsp;Seminyak,&nbsp;Nusa Dua,&nbsp;Kuta,&nbsp;and&nbsp;Jimbaran&nbsp;are just a handful of the island's most-loved beach destinations, where sunset views, idyllic beaches, and a year-round holiday atmosphere ensure the perfect setting for an unforgettable holiday, honeymoon or family getaway. A&nbsp;tour of Bali&nbsp;is all about exploring the distinct traditions of&nbsp;Balinese Hinduism, spending laid-back afternoons soaking up the sunshine on the beach and exploring the wildlife of the rich highlands.&nbsp;
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<h2>Highlights of Bali</h2>
There are simply so many things to see in&nbsp;Bali, it can be difficult to know where to begin. The sheer number of&nbsp;Hindu&nbsp;temples, picturesque beaches, and curious cultural attractions form a dizzying array of things to do, but a few favorite sights stand out.&nbsp;Uluwatu Temple&nbsp;is one of&nbsp;Bali&rsquo;s&nbsp;&lsquo;spiritual pillars&rsquo; and a favorite place to watch the sunset.
&nbsp;Set on a cliff overlooking the&nbsp;Indian Ocean,&nbsp;Uluwatu Temple&nbsp;is one of the most authentic places on the island to get in touch with your spiritual side. Another unmissable highlight is the&nbsp;Taman Saraswati Temple, also known as&nbsp;Ubud Water Palace. Set amongst tranquil ponds, adorned with lilypads, this temple is known for its evening dance performances, which take place every night.
If you&rsquo;re a wildlife lover, you cannot miss a visit to the Monkey Forest of Ubud&nbsp;during a trip to&nbsp;Bali. Home to hundreds of long-tailed macaques, these adorable monkeys have free reign amongst the verdant trees and sacred temples on the site. It&rsquo;s a magical place and the perfect destination to get up close to&nbsp;Bali&rsquo;s most famous residents.&nbsp;
When it comes to natural wonders, aside from the beautiful, rugged coastline and picture-perfect rice terraces,&nbsp;Mount Batur&nbsp;stands out as a must-see sight on a&nbsp;Bali&nbsp;tour. An active volcano,&nbsp;Mount Batur&nbsp;rises&nbsp;1717 meters&nbsp;from the waters of&nbsp;Lake Batur.&nbsp;
It&rsquo;s possible to hike to the summit and many choose to set off in the early hours to catch the sunrise from the peak. If you&rsquo;re curious about&nbsp;Balinese&nbsp;culture, head to&nbsp;Batuan Village, for an authentic look at historic&nbsp;Bali, complete with traditional houses and architecture. The village is inhabited by craftsmen and artists who work diligently to continue the artistic traditions of their ancestors.&nbsp;

Bali

Essence of Nippon & Island of the Gods

Traveling to Beijing means traveling to a place of contrasts. The Chinese capital is one of the largest metropolises in the world with a history stretching back over 1,000 years. More than 21 million people live in small houses interspersed with tall skyscrapers. Do you want to lose yourself in its streets and among its people? These are some of the must-see sights.
&nbsp;
<h2>Traveling to Beijing: parks and squares</h2>
<h3>Tiananmen Square and the Mausoleum of Mao Zedong</h3>
Tiananmen Square is very close to the Forbidden City where you can find some of the most iconic places in the city, such as the National Museum of China, the Monument to the People's Heroes and the Mausoleum of Mao Zedong. You're bound to find long queues to see the embalmed body and to get in you'll have to leave cameras and backpacks in storage.&nbsp;
<h3>Beihai Park</h3>
Beihai Park is as beautiful as it is huge. If you have time, go to the White Dagoba, which you can find on the island in the middle of the lake. It was built for the Dalai Lama's visit to the city in 1651. The park is also home to several Buddhist temples.
<h3>Jingshan Park or Emperor's Hill</h3>
Traveling to Beijing and losing yourself in its streets is a wonderful experience, but if you want to see it from a vantage point to get a panoramic view, go to Emperor's Hill. It was created using the earth that was excavated when the moat of the Forbidden City was built, and now offers incredible views of the city. The best, in fact.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
<h2>The Hutongs: an experience unique to Beijing</h2>
Most of these old and narrow alleys were demolished to build the stadiums that hosted the 2008 Olympic Games. However, some can still be visited. Do it on foot or hire a rickshaw. The most authentic ones are next to the Bell Tower and the Drum Tower.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
<h2>The Forbidden City, a must if you decide to travel to Beijing</h2>
24 Chinese emperors from the Ming and Qing dynasties ruled the country from this fabulous complex, which includes not only the imperial palace but also the buildings used to house the entire court.&nbsp;
The visit to the complex, classified as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, lasts a minimum of two hours. You can see the emperor's private rooms and the Hall of Supreme Harmony, among other things.
&nbsp;
<h2>Summer Palace and Lake Kunming</h2>
During the summer, the emperors would leave the Forbidden City and spend the hottest months in the Summer Palace, at a location largely occupied by Lake Kunming. Its waters keep the complex cool; here you can see the Garden of Virtue and Harmony, the Tower of Buddhist Incense, the 17-Arch Bridge, the Long Corridor, and the Stone Boat. Reserve an entire morning or afternoon for this visit.
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<h2>Old Summer Palace</h2>
Only 5 kilometers northwest of the Summer Palace are the ruins of a former residence. Its gardens were built in the 17th century and you will see its clear European influence. The English invasion did considerable damage to the palace, but it's still well worth a visit.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
<h2>The Temple of Heaven</h2>
You can't travel to Beijing without visiting one of its most sacred places: The Temple of Heaven. It was built during the Ming Dynasty as an offering to the heavens, in gratitude for abundant harvests and also to ask for good harvests in the future. Chinese temple names are very descriptive. In the Temple of Heaven, you will find the Hall of Abstinence and the Imperial Vault of Heaven. Don't be surprised if you find people practicing tai chi in its gardens.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
<h2>Traveling to Beijing and shopping in Wangfujing</h2>
Beijing is well known for its markets and shopping malls. If you're looking for deals and bargains, this is your city; and the most commercial area is Wangfujing, right in the center. You'll find shopping malls, department stores and many souvenir shops here. Don't miss the nocturnal market to savor the strange cuisine based on spiders and snakes served on skewers.&nbsp;
And if you're going to Beijing to do some haggling, go to the Silk Market. Here you'll find more than 1,700 stalls offering crafts and silks. Watch out for fakes!
&nbsp;
<h2>Yonghe Temple or Lama Temple</h2>
If you've decided to travel to Beijing to see its finest temples, you mustn't miss Yonghe Temple. It's the most important Tibetan Buddhist temple outside Tibet. It dates from the seventeenth century and in its time served as a spiritual refuge for the lamas. You'll recognize it by its golden roofs and the carving, from a single piece of wood, of the Maitreya Buddha.

Beijing

The capital of Zhejiang, located near the mouth of the Qiantang River, is one of the most visited places in China. Credit for this is probably due to the Sui dynasty, which ruled between 581 and 618 AD and built the Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal. It is the longest artificial river in the world and has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. So, if you decide to visit Hangzhou, be prepared to meet other travelers. It is no accident that this was one of the most important trading centers of antiquity. A function that persists to the present day. Do you which large Chinese company has its headquarters in Hangzhou? None other than Alibaba Group, the owners and founders of the world-renowned AliExpres.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
<h2>Lingyin Temple</h2>
The first place to see when you visit Hangzhou is the Lingyin Temple or Temple of the Hidden Soul. It is also known as the Temple of the Soul's Retreat.
This is a very important place for practitioners of Buddhism in China. They revere it because of its spectacular architecture, but also because of the literary treasures it houses.&nbsp;
Like many other temples, the Hidden Soul temple does not consist of a single building but is a complex with several courtyards, gardens, and pavilions of great beauty. When you visit you will find the faithful making their incense offerings in a place that connects present and past through spirituality.&nbsp;
During its heyday, the complex consisted of a total of nine buildings of various heights, 18 pagodas, 1,300 bedrooms, and 72 rooms. More than 3,000 monks lived and prayed within its walls.&nbsp;
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<h2>Flying Peak: open-air sculpture museum</h2>
In reality, calling the Flying Peak a sculpture museum is not entirely accurate. We're talking about a group of almost 500 rock sculptures representing Buddhas and other Buddhism-related figures. They were carved between the 10th and 14th centuries and the best known of them all is the laughing Buddha, Maitreya. One-stop that no one visiting Hangzhou should miss The Buddhas are a symbol of happiness and this one, with its great smile, promises to give joy to all who see it.
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<h2>The Pagoda of Six Harmonies</h2>
The Six Harmonies Pagoda is not located in the center of the city, but to the south, by the Qiantang River. It dates back to 970 AD and was built in brick and wood during the reign of the Song dynasty.&nbsp;
Its name is derived from the six Buddhist laws or harmonies: heaven, earth, east, west, north, and south, related to the principles of this religion, which preaches harmony of body, words, mind, opinions, abstinence, and poverty.&nbsp;
The number six is important in China because six is also the number of Feng Shui elements that are arranged to achieve perfect harmony in the home: water, fire, earth, metal, wood, and air.
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<h2>Travel to Hangzhou and visit the West Lake</h2>
UNESCO has declared the West Lake and the surrounding landscape a World Heritage Site. You can sail on the lake in a small boat when you visit Hangzhou. The views lead you to the forests and mountains that have populated Chinese mythology since time immemorial.&nbsp;
The lake has an area of about eight square kilometers and is divided into five parts: Northern Lake, Lake Yuehu, Western Interior Lake and Southern Minor Lake.
If you don't want to sail, you can cross it using one of the most impressive causeways in the world, which owes its fame to the landscape. It's a three-kilometer walk across the waters that you'll never forget.&nbsp;
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<h2>Travel to Hangzhou to enjoy the food</h2>
Chinese food has become virtually international. However, eating a Chinese takeaway at home is not the same as eating authentic Chinese dishes in China. Here are some of the Chinese delicacies you can try if you travel to their country of origin:&nbsp;
Steamed meat patties called Xianrou Xiaolong; Whole roasted chicken wrapped in lotus leaves. Although the name of Beggar's Chicken is hardly appetizing, it's actually exquisite. Fish head with soybean curd. This is one of the best-known delicacies of the region. It's mostly eaten in winter. Golden carp with bamboo shoots, also typical of the colder months. Fish soup. As you can see, fish are the basis of many of these dishes. Bear in mind that Hangzhou's two biggest attractions are its canal and the western lake. Stew made from bamboo shoots, Crunchy tofu roll and Sweet-and-sour carp from the lake.

Hangzhou

Shanghai&rsquo;s appeal stretches across generations, from the glamour and glitz of the 1920s, the city&rsquo;s &lsquo;Golden Age&rsquo;, typified in the Art Deco architecture of the Bund, to the ultra-modern skyscrapers of Pudong, Shanghai&rsquo;s high-tech hub. As the nation&rsquo;s most developed and largest city, no tour of China is complete without a visit to Shanghai to contemplate its eclectic buildings, diverse neighborhoods and &lsquo;anything is possible&rsquo; atmosphere.
Carved in two by the Huangpu River, Shanghai oozes cosmopolitan elegance. Most of the city&rsquo;s historic districts and top sights lie on the west bank of the river, in the areas known as Puxi. Here, you can shop till you drop in the leafy avenues of the French Concession, dubbed the &lsquo;Paris of the East&rsquo;, or soak up the charms of old Shanghai in Huangpu and the Old City, where traditional wooden architecture and teahouses promise to transport you back in time.
Aside from its financial center and reputation as a shopping paradise, one thing that Shanhai stands out for is its amazing food scene. Chock-full of Michellin-star eats, scrumptious street food and quirky cafeterias, food is at the heart of Shanghainese culture, so come with an empty stomach and eat your way through delicious Chinese delicacies. A tantalizing mix of east and west, a trip to Shanghai is bound to be an action-packed and eye-opening experience.&nbsp;
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<h2>What to see in Shanghai</h2>
As you&rsquo;d imagine for a city of its size, there are countless things to see in Shanghai. The Bund is surely one of the most popular parts of Shanghai. Here you can relive the city&rsquo;s Golden Age as you stroll past stately western-style architecture on the banks of the Huangpu River and enjoy excellent views of the skyscrapers of Pudong. From the Bund, you can see the Oriental Pearl Tower, an icon of the city&rsquo;s skyline and a quintessential stop on any tour of Shanghai. Cross the river and you can ascend to one of its fifteen observation decks or even eat in its rotating restaurant! 
During the summer downpours, one of the best things to do in Shanghai is to pay a visit to the vast Shanghai Museum, a fantastical modern building situated at the center of People&rsquo;s Square. This museum, dubbed one of the world&rsquo;s finest, houses priceless ancient Chinese paintings, ceramics and sculptures and a tour of Shanghai Museum can easily fill much of a rainy day. If you&rsquo;d rather focus on the historical parts of the city during your stay in Shanghai, don&rsquo;t miss out on a visit to the Yuyuan Gardens, situated behind the beautiful City of God Temple in the Old City.
This traditional Chinese garden portrays the typical postcard aesthetic of the China of yesteryear, with various buildings and monuments to explore, as well as a bustling bazaar. A further relic of the city&rsquo;s past, Jade Buddha Temple, reveals the spiritual side of, Shanghai and is a peaceful haven amidst the urban sprawl. Built-in 1882, this Buddhist temple is best-known for its beautiful reclining jade buddha statue although it is also home to three large golden buddha statues. A holiday to Shanghai is incomplete without paying homage to ancient Chinese tea culture at one of Shanghai&rsquo;s many teahouses, a number of which are concentrated around the Yuyuan Garden area.
Inside a traditional teahouse, you&rsquo;ll have the opportunity to sample fine Chinese tea in atmospheric surroundings. A unique thing to do in Shanghai that cannot be experienced anywhere else in the world to ride on the Maglev Railway, the fastest commercial electric train in the world. A trip from Pudong Airport to Longyan Road gives you the chance to experience a top speed of 431 kilometers per hour! For young and young-at-heart visitors on a tour of Shanghai, a visit to Shanghai Disneyland is a must-do. Described as a Chinese interpretation of the much-loved theme park franchises, it boasts the largest fairytale castle out of all the Disney theme parks in the world.

Shanghai

Traveling to Suzhou on a half-day or full-day tour from Shanghai is standard practice. And there are multiple reasons for this. Not for nothing the city's known as the "Venice of China", thanks to its canals, its rounded bridges, and even its gondoliers. But there's so much more you can see here. Its traditional gardens have been recognized as World Heritage Sites by UNESCO, and it has several pagodas worth seeing as well as the remains of the wall that once surrounded it. Get to know Suzhou with Exoticca.
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<h2>The Suzhou canals</h2>
Before even setting foot in Suzhou you should know why it's often compared to Venice. A city map shows just how the canals serve as the city's nervous system. You could say there's almost more water than paved roads. Those whose job it is to transport tourists in their canal boats wear striped t-shirts with the typical shades of blue and white and some even sing a tune similar to Pavarotti's iconic "O sole mio".
It's true that the traditional Chinese architecture, small white houses, red lanterns, and more modest rounded bridges are a world apart from Venice, but the comparison is more than justified.
Fortunately, Suzhou doesn't attract mass tourism, so if you do visit you can enjoy certain tranquility.&nbsp;
Although the whole city is thronged with canals, the most beautiful ones are on the roads of Shan Tang and Pinjiang. Taking photos from any of the little bridges that cross them will enable you to capture the area's beauty. These two streets are the most visited streets in Suzhou, so you will find lots of souvenir shops, restaurants and places to savor delicious Chinese tea. If you prefer a quieter or less Westernised area, you're only a few streets away from it.&nbsp;
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<h2>Classical Gardens of Suzhou</h2>
You can't travel to Suzhou without visiting one of its gardens. In fact, one of the most popular walks is the one that leads from the Humble Administrator's Garden to the canals of Shantang Street.&nbsp;
UNESCO has included eight of Suzhou's gardens on its list of World Heritage Sites. Some of them remain unchanged from when they were designed 500 years ago. They originally belonged to private owners who took pride in caring for and preserving them. Today you can visit their lakes, contemplate the various flower species and be amazed at the beauty of their pavilions, temples, and pagodas.&nbsp;
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<h2>North Temple Pagoda</h2>
The North Temple Pagoda has its own gardens and these alone make it worth visiting if you decide to travel to Suzhou. But it also has a Buddhist temple and is one of the strategically located points from which to get the best views of the city. By the way, if you were thinking that Suzhou might be a small place, you'd better rid yourself of the idea. No fewer than ten million people live here.&nbsp;
The pagoda isn't in the city's tourist center, but you can get there by walking or public transport. It's well worth the effort.
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<h2>Tiger Hill and its leaning pagoda</h2>
<h3>King He Lu's Tomb</h3>
Legend has it that three days after his son buried King He Lu on the hill, a white tiger appeared and sat atop his tomb. From that moment on, the hill was named Tiger Hill.
By the way, this is not a natural hill, but a promontory built to serve as the king's tomb. The thousand-odd workers who were employed there were executed upon the completion of the project. A grim start to a spot you mustn't miss when in Suzhou.&nbsp;
<h3>Tiger Hill Pagoda</h3>
The pagoda at the top of the hill belongs to the temple of Yunyan. It's become a symbol of the city and for that reason, you simply must visit it if you decide to travel to Suzhou. We mentioned the similarity between Suzhou and Venice, but the Tiger Hill Pagoda bears a closer resemblance to Pisa, as we're talking about a building that leans.&nbsp;
<h3>Sword Test Stone and Pond of Swords</h3>
King He Lu liked to collect curious swords and it is said that he used to try them out on the stones in his garden. Here you see some cracked stones and it is said that these cracks correspond to the sword strikes. The swords themselves have disappeared and are believed to be buried in the lake, which is called the Pond of Swords.&nbsp;
<h3>Well of Lu Yu</h3>
Lu Yu was the author of the first book on tea. He wrote the last part of his treatise as an old man when he lived on Tiger Hill. Here he dug a well and declared that its water was the third-best in all of China, perfect for making tea.&nbsp;

Suzhou

The main attraction of Hangzhou, the majority of tourist attractions are located in this area. In China there are 36 West Lakes, but the one in Hangzhou is, by far, the most famous. It is only accessible by boat.

West Lake

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