Kyoto (kobe) -to- Singapore

Kobe is a city on Osaka Bay in central Japan. It is known for its signature marbled beef and scenic setting of mountains framing the harbor. The Ikuta Shrine, dating to the 3rd century, is among Japan's oldest Shinto shrines. Antique cable cars connect Kobe to Mt. Rokko, which offers panoramic views over the port. Beyond the Mount Rokko hills are the outdoor hot springs of Arima Onsen.

Kochi boasts beautiful and abundant natural landscapes, from an expansive coastline running with the Kuroshio Current to the clear Shimanto River and the deep green forests that surround it. Located in the south of Shikoku, Kochi is ringed by rugged mountains to the north, and its arc-like southern coastline traces the outline of Tosa Bay. To the east is Cape Muroto, and to the west, Cape Ashizuri, with gently undulating sandy beaches stretching between these two extreme points. The prefecture also boasts the mystical limestone caves of Ryu-ga-do, and the beautiful sands and green pines of Katsura-hama Beach.

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.

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.

The Philippine capital of Manila was founded by King Philip II of Spain. In the years that followed, the Spanish successfully prevented the Dutch, Portuguese and Chinese from settling in the Philippines. During the Seven Years' War the British occupied Manila, but agreed to return it to Spain in 1763. During WWII, the Japanese took control during a 1942 invasion, and eventually the U.S. recaptured the islands and returned them to the Philippines. In 1946, the country was granted full independence.

Enjoy the sights in this bustling, ethnically diverse city as you see the golddomed mosque, unique high-rise architecture, and the Heritage Village. Or venture into the interior and astonishing Kinabalu Park. Stroll past rare plants along a nature trail and through a garden of rare orchids. Or ride Borneo's last train into the lush countryside of farms, water buffalo and villages. Spend time on the glorious beaches.

Straegically located at the end of the Malaysian peninsula, the island nation of Singapore is a modern, thriving metropolis and a true melting pot of cultures. Singapore offers diverse colorful ethnic quarters; a fantastic array of superb cuisines; and a shopping mecca second to none. In many ways Singapore (the name means Lion City) was built by Sir Stamford Raffles. Coming ashore to a tiny fishing village in 1819, through trade treaties and business acumen, he laid the foundation for one of the most amazing urban success stories in history. Today, travelers can embrace exotic sights and sounds as they stroll or ride a trishaw through Chinatown, the Arab Quarter or Little India. Head down to the scenic Boat Quay for unrivaled views of the harbor and stop at one of the many international eateries for a refreshing repast. Shop along famous Orchard Road with its merchandise from every corner of the Pacific Rim; embark on a night safari at the Singapore Zoo or relax in the verdant shade…

Straegically located at the end of the Malaysian peninsula, the island nation of Singapore is a modern, thriving metropolis and a true melting pot of cultures. Singapore offers diverse colorful ethnic quarters; a fantastic array of superb cuisines; and a shopping mecca second to none. In many ways Singapore (the name means Lion City) was built by Sir Stamford Raffles. Coming ashore to a tiny fishing village in 1819, through trade treaties and business acumen, he laid the foundation for one of the most amazing urban success stories in history. Today, travelers can embrace exotic sights and sounds as they stroll or ride a trishaw through Chinatown, the Arab Quarter or Little India. Head down to the scenic Boat Quay for unrivaled views of the harbor and stop at one of the many international eateries for a refreshing repast. Shop along famous Orchard Road with its merchandise from every corner of the Pacific Rim; embark on a night safari at the Singapore Zoo or relax in the verdant shade…