Asia Archives

Nagasaki: Traditional Gateway to Japan

Despite its troubled history, Nagasaki today presents itself as a vibrant port town, where foreign influences mix with Japanese culture.

Tsingpu Tulou is a thoughtful retreat that combines the aesthetic of traditional Fujian earthen houses with modern comforts.

Once the royal capital of Laos, Luang Prabang is known for its mix of gilded Buddhist temples, elegant colonial villas, and natural beauty.

Characterized by stalagmite-like rocks, Cappadocia’s landscape resembles scenes from a sci-fi novel that is alien yet utterly fascinating.

From the iconic Sensoji Temple in Asakusa to the graceful museums of Ueno, Taitō City in northern Tokyo displays an irresistible retro charm.

Nestled in the lush valleys of southwestern Fujian, tulou (土楼) are Hakka earthen houses distinctive in their architecture and function.

Rattanakosin is an artificial island where the essence of old Bangkok is woven into the fabric of daily life.

Though the Seljuks have faded into history, their enduring legacy is evident in several impressive monuments across the old town of Konya.

Once rivaled by Kyoto for its regal beauty, Hiraizumi is now known for its temples and garden complex that represents the pure land of Buddha.

With a 600-plus-year history, the villages of southern Anhui (安徽) offer a glimpse into a traditional way of life that gradually disappeared.

Though today standing in geentel ruins, Ayutthaya offers a glimpse into the past glory of the long-lived kingdom of Siam.

Safranbolu is like a living museum that exhibits the finest examples of traditional Ottoman architecture and urban layout.

Gigantic yet surprisingly intricate, the lanterns of Aomori are the highlights of Nebuta Matsuri – one of Japan’s biggest summer festivals.

The granite peaks of Huangshan (黄山) give the impression of a traditional black ink painting, inspiring painters and poets for centuries.