Articles in the 'North & Central Asia' Category

Meeting Mongolians

Several recent harsh winters have threatened Mongolia’s nomadic way of life. Jo Hoban explains that the first step to preserving the culture is to spend some time in a family ger.

Valuing Japan’s Heritage

Sometimes the Land of the Rising Sun seems to focus too hard on the future. Claire Barnes finds a dedicated American trying to seed life back into a remote corner of rural Japan and save a taste of the past for future generations.

Under Kyrgyz Skies

The mountain nomads of Kyrgyzstan can become much more than just part of a traveller’s view. North & Central Asia Regional Manager Huw Owen samples their lifestyle at first hand, uncovering a programme that lets visitors contribute directly to local families by staying in their homes.

An echo of China’s past

Huw Owen takes a journey into the past in Guizhou, a rural and ethnically diverse region of southern China far removed from the country’s frenetic modern cities.

Himalayan highways

Beatrice Bowen explains why trekking in Nepal is not the preserve of backpackers and mountaineers.

Sporting times

The march to globalisation of certain sports may seem unstoppable, but more localised pursuits are still extremely popular in certain corners of the globe. Our specialists reveal some of their favourites.

On the trail of the Romanovs

Jo Hoban has always been fascinated by the Romanovs, Russia’s imperial family. Here, she shares her memories of a journey through the land they once ruled.

The Other Side of the World

Ben Colbridge, North and Central Asia Specialist describes his years in the Far East.

China’s Top Ten

Chris Moore chooses his top ten experiences in China

Inn Japan

A stay at a traditional ryokan can be a wonderful addition to any trip to Japan. Our Japan specialists present their favourites.

Baltic Bliss

The charms of Riga Vilnius and Tallinn.

China on the March

Huw Owen previews the British Museum’s First Emperor exhibition.

The Giant Panda

Ian Mason relates the magic of seeing the giant panda, China’s national symbol.

Japanese Snow Monkeys

Henrietta Preiss reveals the intriguing behaviour of one of Japan’s more quaint inhabitants

Memoirs of a Geisha Guide

We discuss life in Kyoto with two of our resident guides.

Back in the USSR

Our Central Asia and Russia speacialists reveal the many cultures and landscapes waiting to be discovered in the former USSR.

Omatsuri

Our Japan specialists consider the many different festivals you can incorporate into a visit to the Land of the Rising Sun.

Silk Routes

Paul Done heads south-west from Turpan to Kashgar.

Model Efficiency

An insight into the world’s most efficient railway system - Japan’s bullet trains.

Stapleton’s Stops

Tom Stapleton discusses his favourite stop-offs on the Trans-Mongolian Railway.

Stepping Out

David Bannister recalls the majestic landscapes of Mongolia.

Legacy of Elegance

Keira Dodd reflects on the colonial influences evident in Indochina.

City Strolling, Asia’s Best Urban Walking

Our North and Central Asia specialists’ guide to exploring cities on foot.

People’s Republic of China

China’s immense population contains pockets of minority groups with very distinct cultures.

Japanese Dining Unravelled

Eating in Japan can be anything from a relaxed occasion to a lengthy ritual.

Slow Train to Moscow

Taking the famous Trans-Siberian Express across Asia.

Travels along the Silk Route

Huw Owen reflects on the re-emergence of this ancient trade route.

Japan Top 10

Our specialists select their favourite places and experiences from the many options that Japan has to offer.

China Favourites

Our specialists explore China just off the beaten track.

Potala and Pandas

The fabulous scenery and timeless charm of the Tibetan Plateau.

24 Hours in Kyoto

A quick taste of one of Japan’s finest cities.

What about Macau?

An introduction to China’s beautiful and under-appriceiated next-door neighbour.

Yangtse: Your Questions Answered

The answers to all your questions on one of the world’s greatest river journeys.

Ryokans of Japan

Nick Coats tells of his passion for Japan’s traditional inns.

China in Celluloid

Tom Weston takes a cinematic tour of China.

Beaches & Retreats

We highlight four of our favourite resorts in China and Southeast Asia, offering an idyllic end to your journey…

River Journeys

Asia’s mighty rivers offer a handful of classic river cruises, here we focus on two of the most famous: the Yangtse in China and Burma’s great Irrawaddy.

China & South Korea

Tom Weston travels through China & South Korea to update his knowledge of its places, excursions and accommodation.

Autumn & Winter in Focus

Travelling to Asia in Autumn and Winter gives you a chance to experience the colours of autumnal Japan, the clear skies of Laos and Southern India’s delightful backwaters.