Comorile Asiei de Est: Hong Kong, Shanghai, Seul, Tokyo

About the destination: Hong Kong is a Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China. This bustling harbor city is one of Asia's primary financial hubs. It is composed of Kowloon, Hong Kong Island, the New Territories, and over 260 smaller islands. Hong Kong Island, with its striking skyline, is the main attraction for most visitors. Hong Kong is a blend of the ocean, islands, modern skyscrapers, ancient temples, and fishing villages. The city's heart is Victoria Harbor, which both separates and unites Kowloon and Hong Kong Island. The most renowned view of Hong Kong is from Victoria Peak, the highest point on Hong Kong Island, accessible via the Peak Tram. Other key attractions in Hong Kong include the Tian Tan Buddha on Lantau Island, the old colonial buildings of Central juxtaposed with the uniquely modern and mirrored towers, intriguing museums, the densely populated areas of Kowloon and Mong Kok, and the scenic, tranquil areas of Stanley and Aberdeen. A city brimming with energy and spirit, Hong Kong provides a buzzing atmosphere, a lively cultural scene, delectable cuisine, shopping, thrilling nightlife, and many more surprises that will astonish even the most discerning tourist.

About the destination: Shanghai is a contemporary city situated just south of the mouth of the powerful Yangtze River and divided by the Huangpu River. It is one of the largest metropolises in China and is regarded as the most cosmopolitan, sophisticated, and forward-thinking city in mainland China. Shanghai is an excellent destination for those wishing to get a glimpse of China's future. A whole new city of skyscrapers has been constructed in its Pudong district, including the Oriental Pearl Tower, which has become one of the city’s landmarks and is one of the tallest structures in Asia, and the Shanghai World Financial Center, the third largest building in Asia and the world. On the west side of the Yangzi River is the Puxi area, the older central part of the city. Puxi has a rich history and it is here where you will find many of the city’s old buildings and attractions, such as the French Concession, the Bund, the Yuyuan Garden, the Jiu Qu Bridge, the Huxin Pavilion, and the Temple. Shanghai is China’s cosmopolitan center of finance and culture. Shanghai possesses a unique oriental allure and a fresh western style that appeals to everyone. It is also an excellent starting point for exploring the more rural and traditional sights of the nearby Jiangsu and Zhejiang provinces.

About the destination: Seoul is the capital of South Korea. Exuding Asian charm from every brick, Seoul is a very modern city yet traditional. There is a lot to see and do in this vibrant city; it offers many worthy sights, delicious gastronomy, architecture, nightlife, museums, culture, entertainment, shopping, and open spaces to satisfy any visitor. The Hangang River separates Seoul into two distinct areas, north and south. The city lies in a natural basin, surrounded by the Hanbuk Mountain Range and a series of hills, offering magnificent scenic beauty that is one of Seoul’s major appeals. As the ancient seat of Korea's royalty, there are many palaces and fortresses spread throughout the city. Some of the most important are the Gyeongbok-gung, the Changdeok-gung, and the Deoksu-gung. There are also many temples and shrines devoted to the royal family members of Korean dynasties and to the Jogye order of Buddhism, the dominant branch of Buddhism in Korea. Two of the major Buddhist temples in the city are the Jogye Temple and the Bongeun Temple. There are several parks throughout the city and some fantastic hiking opportunities on the outskirts of the city center. Exciting and colorful, traditional and modern, Seoul is never boring.

About the destination: Tokyo is the capital of Japan and one of the largest urban areas in the world. Tokyo serves as Japan's financial hub and is a fusion of cutting-edge technology and tradition. Tokyo is vast and a well-structured modern city. The cityscape of Tokyo is composed of temples and shrines, serene nature reserves, historical structures, futuristic architecture, and neon lights. The heart of the city encompasses Chiyoda and Chuo. This region boasts the magnificent Imperial Palace, the national government buildings, the renowned shopping district of Ginza, Tsukiji fish market, Akihabara electronics market, and the historic Tokyo Station. The peaceful neighborhood of Asakusa offers must-see attractions like the Sensoji Temple, the Nakamise-dōri shopping arcade, and the Golden Poo. Close by is the Ueno area, which includes the Ameyoko market. It's an ideal place to shop for traditional gifts and visit a significant Buddhist temple. Another key attraction of the city is the Meiji Shrine, situated in Shibuya. Tokyo is a distinctive city that offers something for everyone, bustling shopping districts, famous nightlife, historical landmarks, tranquil parks, and stunning scenery.