David Waldes
I love traveling throughout Japan and China to find hidden gems and learn about the rich cultural history in each country. One of my favorite spots is Niigata in Japan, where people can watch potters and other artisans at work. Recently, a new train line was built, making it just a two-hour ride from Tokyo. This has made it more popular with visitors, but the area still has the look and feel of old Japan, and it’s truly a gem of a place.
Other areas of Japan hold just as many wonders. In Sapporo, you can sample the distinctive local beer at a brewery, and in Hokkaido, the sight of fields of lavender in bloom is unforgettable. There are also amazing national parks where visitors can go hiking.
No trip to Japan would be complete without visiting Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Each of these cities contains layers upon layers of cultural history. Aside from the horrors that happened during World War II, Nagasaki was a port where Europeans interacted with Japanese people for hundreds of years and that exchange of ideas makes it a fascinating place.
It is difficult to fully appreciate the rich diversity and cultural history of Asia without seeing it for yourself. In Japan, each island is distinct, both physically and culturally and each region contains its own wonders.
Jump across the East China Sea to China, and you will be even more awestruck by the diversity. You can take romantic rides through the hutongs in Beijing or stroll atop the Great Wall of China, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
One of my favorite spots is a 5-star luxury resort within walking distance of the Great Wall of China. Imagine waking up, taking a brisk walk and finding yourself among the first people of the day to walk on the Great Wall. In those early morning hours, it’s easy to believe, if only for a moment, that you’ve been transported back hundreds of years to old China.
Hong Kong is high on many people’s bucket lists, and for good reason. This vibrant city has gone through tremendous changes and has long been a center of commerce. Here, you can not only taste the dynamic street food but take cooking classes to learn to recreate the complex flavors in the local cuisine.
Shanghai is one of the most alluring of China’s cities, reflecting the Western influences that used it as a foothold into the riches of China. Now, in addition to arriving by sea and air, you can come overland on the China Railway high-speed bullet train which travels between 155 and 217 miles per hour.
That’s just a sampling of my favorite experiences. I love sharing the rich cultural history of Japan and China with my clients and finding unique experiences that match their interests. Whether you enjoy culinary delights, adventure travel experiences, luxurious accommodations or a combination of all of these things, I am here to craft your journey-of-a-lifetime.