Zen to Zest - Tokyo to Hong Kong

Yokohama is the capital of Kanagawa Prefecture and, with a population of 3.6 million, is Japan's largest city after Tokyo. It is centered on an inlet on the western side of Tokyo Bay, to which it is connected by a half-dozen railway lines as well as expressways and surface streets via Kawasaki. A major industrial zone known as the Keihin Industrial Area stretches along the reclaimed coastline to the north of the central area towards Kawasaki and Tokyo beyond.

This centrally located city at the crossroads of the country offers the international visitor an excellent look at both modern and traditional Japan. It features wide boulevards, a dynamic shopping district in the heart of downtown, and easy access to nearby mountains and beaches for day trips. The main visitor destination here is Nagoya Castle, featuring the samurai armor and treasures of the Tokugawa clan. Other visitor favorites include the Atsuta Shrine & Technology Museum, highlighting the city’s past and present; nearby Inuyama Castle, believed to be the oldest castle in Japan; Noritake Garden and its Craft Center; and Toyokuni Shrine where you can see the large torii (Shinto Shrine gate).

Osaka is the third largest city in Japan and the central metropolis of the Kansai region. Osaka dates back to the Asuka and Nara period. Under the name Naniwa, it was the capital of Japan from 683 to 745, long before the upstarts at Kyoto took over. Even after the capital was moved elsewhere, Osaka continued to play an important role as a hub for land, sea and river-canal transportation. In a nation of obsessive gourmands Osaka is known as an excellent place to eat.

Osaka is the third largest city in Japan and the central metropolis of the Kansai region. Osaka dates back to the Asuka and Nara period. Under the name Naniwa, it was the capital of Japan from 683 to 745, long before the upstarts at Kyoto took over. Even after the capital was moved elsewhere, Osaka continued to play an important role as a hub for land, sea and river-canal transportation. In a nation of obsessive gourmands Osaka is known as an excellent place to eat.

Explore this beautiful island and visit imposing Shuri Castle, home of the Ryukyu royal family for 400 years. Enjoy the scenic countryside, the WWII memorials, the magnificent limestone caves and a reconstructed Ryukyu village where the island's heritage and crafts are on display.

Founded at the beginning of the 20th century, Ishigaki is the political, cultural and economic center of the Yaeyama Islands. Renowned for its stunning beaches and natural beauty, Ishigaki is also popular for those wishing to visit the islands of the Yaeyama archipelago—including Kohama, Kuroshima and Taketomi—as well as its vibrant nightlife.

On this fascinating island visit the world's tallest building, the Chiang Kai Shek Memorial, the fabulous Palace Museum's vast collection of Chinese art and the lovely Lungshan Temple.Explore lovely Keelung's historic sites and Yeliu Park's astonishing rock formations.

Perched at the southern end of Taiwan, Kaohsiung’s roots date back to the 17th century, when it was a small fishing village. Today, it’s the second most populous city in Taiwan and known as the Harbor Capital. Visitors enjoy visits to the Fo Guang Shan monastery, with its hall of giant Buddhas, and the beautiful landscapes of Kenting National Park.

In 1841, Hong Kong became a British Crown colony when it was acquired from China. In 1984, Britain and China signed an agreement which stated Hong Kong would return to China, but that it would maintain in its capitalist system for 50 years. This transfer took place during on June 30, 1997 under great pomp and ceremony. Its enormous harbor, vast industrialization and free port status make it a major Asian crossroad, and perhaps the best place to shop in the world.

In 1841, Hong Kong became a British Crown colony when it was acquired from China. In 1984, Britain and China signed an agreement which stated Hong Kong would return to China, but that it would maintain in its capitalist system for 50 years. This transfer took place during on June 30, 1997 under great pomp and ceremony. Its enormous harbor, vast industrialization and free port status make it a major Asian crossroad, and perhaps the best place to shop in the world.