Far East

Trips to Far East

From its high-octane cities and lightning-fast shinkansen (bullet trains) to traditional ryokan and frothy cherry blossoms, Japan is one destination in Asia that never disappoints. With an approach to life that’s unlike anywhere else in the world, expect to encounter food, traditions, and inventions that you’ve never heard of on a daily basis.

Indulge in the weird and wonderful on Tokyo’s neon-lit streets with everything from cosplay and maid cafes to kawaii photo booths and cutting-edge arcade games. Get cultural in Kyoto with ancient temples, Zen gardens, martial arts lessons from descendants of the Samurai, and tea ceremonies with the mysterious geisha. Soak up iconic views from the snow-capped peaks of Mount Fuji to the emerald walkways of Arashiyama’s bamboo forest. Spend a night in a working Buddhist monastery and learn all about Hiroshima’s tragic past at the Peace Memorial. It’s a cultural experience like no other.

South Korea may be small, but it packs a big punch, with soaring mountain ranges, atmospheric temples, high-tech cities, and a unique history. This Far East gem is all about contrasts, from the dynamic 24-hour culture of modern Seoul to the deep tranquillity of Gyeongiu’s Buddhist temples. Think martial arts and meditation in the morning, a visit to the DMZ (demilitarised zone) in the afternoon, and karaoke and K-Pop by night, and you’ve got the picture. We think it should top the list for adventurous globetrotters looking to travel Asia.