Where you can travel with us in North Asia, China & Japan
Our specialists can help you plan your trip, individually focusing on your tastes and interests, to the destinations below.
Some of the world’s oldest and largest empires originated in this part of the world, and our specialists can arrange for you to take part in one-off experiences that get to the heart of these countries’ cultures, their storied pasts and complex present. You could find yourself staying the night in a Mongolian ger camp, or riding the Trans-Siberian Railway. Learn ninja swordplay in Kyoto, hike a remote section of the Great Wall, or explore the wooden Orthodox churches of Russia’s Golden Ring with an expert guide.
North Asia and its nearby countries are also sometimes seen as austere and bureaucratic — a by-product, perhaps, of Communism (which still holds sway in some of these places). But, our specialists are eager to show you that these countries aren’t nearly so different and daunting if you take the time to travel there, and go with an open mind.
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Start planning your tailor-made trip by contacting one of our North Asia, China & Japan specialists
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Trip ideas in North Asia, China & Japan
These itineraries will give you a starting point for what your trip could entail. They cover routes that we've found work particularly well and feature some of our favorite places to stay. Treat them just as inspiration, as each trip is created uniquely for you and there are many more options available.
Our expert guides to exploring North Asia, China & Japan
Capturing our specialists’ extensive travel experience in North Asia, China and Japan, these guides share inspiration, recommendations and our honest advice for how to enjoy the best of what the region can offer in the most authentic ways. From the wealth of options we describe, you can narrow down the choices and start to shape your own trip.
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China’s modern cities: Shanghai and Hong Kong ![Pudong, Shanghai]()
China’s modern cities: Shanghai and Hong Kong
China’s modern cities: Shanghai and Hong Kong
Mixing Chinese and European cultures, Shanghai and Hong Kong bridge the gap between East and West and often mark the start or finale to a China vacation. Specialists Susan and Kara outline the best ways to take in their shimmering skylines and quieter corners.
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Japan’s seasons: cherry blossom and beyond ![Cherry Blossom in Kyoto]()
Japan’s seasons: cherry blossom and beyond
Japan’s seasons: cherry blossom and beyond
Each Japanese season brings a raft of distinct experiences, from spring’s cherry blossom to winter’s snow crab delicacies. Japan specialist Henry shares the highlights of each time of year to help you decide when to visit Japan.
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What to do in Japan: our highlights guide ![Geisha of Japan]()
What to do in Japan: our highlights guide
What to do in Japan: our highlights guide
Having lived and traveled across the country, our Japan Specialist Caitlin has compiled her highlights, from observing centuries-old rituals to the learning about the most modern technology.
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Japan’s bullet trains: an all-you-need-to-know guide ![Shinkansen]()
Japan’s bullet trains: an all-you-need-to-know guide
Japan’s bullet trains: an all-you-need-to-know guide
Japan has long been celebrated for its high-speed train innovations. Japan specialist Phil explains why, for him, Japan’s bullet trains are an ideal way to see the country. He shares his experiences riding the trains through Japan and how to incorporate them into your trip.
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The Great Wall of China: taking a quieter path ![The Great Wall, Beijing]()
The Great Wall of China: taking a quieter path
The Great Wall of China: taking a quieter path
Unmistakable in its appearance and scale, the Great Wall of China wends across the hills, mountains and valleys of northern China. For most visitors, blanking out time to visit this man-made wonder is a must — China specialist Susan outlines the best ways to do this.
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Planning your journey along the Trans-Siberian Railway ![Standard Cabin - 2 Berths, Tsars Gold - Chinese Train, Ulaan Baatar]()
Planning your journey along the Trans-Siberian Railway
Planning your journey along the Trans-Siberian Railway
Revered as one of the greatest journeys on the planet, the Trans-Siberian Railway (or, more specifically, the Trans-Mongolian Railway) links the churches and palaces of Russian cities with the vibrant cultures of Asia, passing through Siberia and the Mongolian steppe. Specialist Matt shares his advice for how to make the journey.
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The Silk Route, unpacked: highlights of Central Asia ![Kyrgyzstan]()
The Silk Route, unpacked: highlights of Central Asia
The Silk Route, unpacked: highlights of Central Asia
The Silk Route spans a vast area of the globe from China to Uzbekistan. Here, Silk Route specialist John explains why you should focus your energies on Central Asia, and why this region is so fulfilling to explore.
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Honeymoons in Japan ![Backyard garden, Tsumago, Japan]()
Honeymoons in Japan
Honeymoons in Japan
Honeymoon couples looking for a cultural adventure will be spoiled for choice in Japan. Country specialist, Layla, discusses some of the highlights for those wishing to honeymoon here.
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Ancient civilizations: The Qin Dynasty ![Zhong woman, Longji]()
Ancient civilizations: The Qin Dynasty
Ancient civilizations: The Qin Dynasty
The Qin Dynasty was a short period in Chinese history but one of the most important. Our knowledgeable specialists can create a tailor-made trip that visits the very best historical sites to help you get the most out of your trip.
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