Takamatsu, Japan doesn't announce itself. There’s no iconic skyline, no bucket-list landmark. But give it two days, eat well, and wander, and something shifts.

You've done the sakura circuit in Japan. You've seen the Instagram posts. But China’s flower culture? It's been going for 2,000 years longer, with philosophical weight that makes hanami look like a recent trend. If you're ready to go deeper than sakura, this is where you start.

When the sakura forecast drops, flights to Tokyo triple in price and viewing spots overflow with tourists. But Japan's cherry blossoms bloom from January to May across different regions. Here's how to experience hanami without the crowds.

China is massive, but some of the country's best destinations sit just a few hours from Beijing and Shanghai. We've picked eight side trips that show you different sides of China - from ancient water towns to mountain cities where your GPS gives up trying to make sense.

You've got the Golden Route sorted: Tokyo's electric energy, Kyoto's temples, Osaka's food scene. Now it’s time to see what else Japan has to offer. This guide covers six destinations that are easy to reach but genuinely different from the Golden Route - places where you can slow down, dig into local culture, and experience a side of Japan most visitors never see.

Travelling by train in China is more than just getting from point A to B, it's an opportunity to see the country's diverse landscapes unfold. In this guide, we break down everything you need to know about China's rail network, from booking tickets to boarding with your passport.

Japan is blowing up with tourists, so we're sharing five places to visit in 2026 that showcase less visited regions. From Fukushima's samurai history to Yakushima's ancient forests and Aomori's massive summer festival, plan your 2026 to places that are truly Off The Eaten Track.

China is having a tourism moment. As visa rules relax and infrastructure develops, we're sharing five places that inspire us for 2026, from Yunnan's burgeoning wine scene to Guizhou's towering peaks. These aren't your typical tourist destinations, they're places that will help you discover what China really has to offer.

The Japan Rail Pass used to be a no-brainer for anyone visiting Japan. Not anymore. With recent price hikes, there's a better option most travelers don't know about that helps you get deeper: Regional Rail Passes.

Shanghai is one of the most vibrant, fast-moving cities in the world. To help you find your feet in this massive city, we're starting our Shanghai guide with two neighbourhoods that capture different sides of the city: the cosmopolitan Former French Concession (a great place to stay) and Qibao (a great water town to visit).

Working out where to base yourself in Tokyo can be a little overwhelming. We've picked out our two favourite neighbourhoods that both have their own unique vibes. Jimbocho's overflowing bookshops and Shimokitazawa's vintage shops are a perfect place to get a less touristy feel for Tokyo.