Asia’s coolest cities can be found scattered throughout South Korea, China, and Japan, and it’s a unique experience to find out what each country’s hidden gems are all about. Combining luxury travel with off the beaten path exploration provides a satisfying vacation experience for any adventurous traveler.
Sagada, Philippines
Sagada is famous for its abundance of natural beauty, and if you want to experience what it’s best known for, you should definitely stick to an out-of-town experience. The city center isn’t known for its beautiful design, but the outskirts are a bonanza of caves, gardens, and rolling hills. Tourists now range from backpackers to luxury seekers like you.
things to do
*Watch the golden sunset of Sagada.
*Visit Echo Valley, which resonates like you wouldn’t believe. Try the tunnels through the underground river, which lead back to the city.
* Pick Sagada oranges to taste their juicy sweetness, they are highly recommended by visitors.
Places to stay in the Philippines
The Peninsula Manila: Located in the heart of Manila, the Peninsula Manila offers an excellent lodging opportunity for both business and leisure travelers.
Kagoshima, Japan
The highlight of Kagoshima is the volcano that rises above the water and land. Peaceful in appearance and yet a constant reminder of the power that lies beneath the earth’s crust, it is actually accessible by ferry. Mountains and gardens provide an opportunity to explore hidden places in one of Japan’s smallest cities.
things to do
* Take a ferry to the smoking volcano.
* Head to the mountains, located 6 miles from the city.
*Visit the Kagoshima Zoo.
Places to stay in Japan
Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo – Plenty of amenities and a contemporary setting make the Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo an excellent choice for the traveler in Japan.
Grand Hyatt Tokyo: Located in the lively Roppongi district, the Grand Hyatt Tokyo is considered one of the best hotels in the city. Modern decor and great food reviews make Grand Hyatt Tokyo a wonderful city to explore.
Mandarin Oriental Hotel Tokyo – If you have a flair for the dramatic, then the Mandarin Oriental Hotel Tokyo is tea luxury accommodation to book. The lobby alone is impressive, surrounded by glass and voted the best in the world by first class travelers.
Cerulean Tower Hotel Tokyo – This is Shibuya’s tallest landmark, with a clean approach to modern banquet halls and accommodations for business travelers.
Daegu, Korea
This South Korean city is a special destination for a select group of travelers. It’s small, but that’s part of the appeal. There are not only interesting things to do during the day, but also interesting places for nightlife. A small place can certainly have a big impact if you go to the right place…
“With the Geumho River and Sincheon Stream running through the city, Daegu is a basin surrounded by mountains.”
things to do
*Eat a large Korean-style barbecue meal.
*Try Norebang, which is similar to Japanese karaoke.
* Head to the Daegu Tower for one of the best views of the city.
Places to stay in Korea
Grand Hyatt Seoul: Think the South Korean capital is overcrowded? You’ll enjoy respite from the bustle at the Grand Hyatt Seoul, which sits right on Mount Namsan on a stunning 18-acre site.
Chengdu China Chengdu has captivated a good part of the tourists, thanks to its position as a gateway to panda breeding centers. A city that is perfect for foodies, Chegdu is not only a good place to eat and drink, but also a great place to center yourself before exploring the rest of China, a “city to breathe” if you will.
things to do
*Visit the Giant Panda Breeding Research Base.
* Stroll down Jinli, a pedestrian street, to enjoy the sites.
*Take the kids to Happy Valley, an amusement and theme park.
Places to stay in China
Grand Hyatt Shanghai: Floor-to-ceiling windows allow you to enjoy one of the most impressive views of the skyline you’ve ever imagined. The Art Deco décor appeals to the luxury lover in everyone.
Four Seasons Hotel Macao: Five pools and a private spa suite should distract you at the Four Seasons Hotel Macao.
Four Seasons Hotel Hangzhou – This elegant and contemporary hotel combines ancient tradition, a lakeside village look and feel, and the latest luxury additions for a true guest experience.
Island Shangri-La, Hong Kong: At 56 stories tall, Island Shangri-La boasts an impressive 34 suites and 531 rooms.
Of all the places to travel, Asia remains one of the most mysterious destinations. Some of the smaller cities in China, Japan and Korea are challenging to reach, but the feeling of discovering a little-known source of tranquility and mystery is one thing luxury-minded travelers crave.