Asien zwischen Tradition und Moderne

Taipeh’s skyline is now characterised by modern office skyscrapers and luxury apartment complexes – the result of the economic boom during the second half of the 20th century. Despite all the modernisation, tradition still has its place here: worshippers pray in ancient temples and religious processions regularly take place in the city’s streets. Taipei 101, the world’s tallest building until 2007, is particularly striking: the skyscraper inspired by bamboo shoots symbolises the connection between the old and the new and has become a landmark of the city.

The tropical island of Ishigaki in the south of Japan is part of the Yaeyama Archipelago in the Okinawa Prefecture. Located about 2,000 km (1,243 miles) away from the hustle and bustle of Tokyo, it has an attractive mild climate, idyllic sandy beaches and a turquoise sea. In addition to some of the best dive sites in Japan, including diving with manta rays in Kabira Bay, this relaxing paradise for beach buffs, divers and nature lovers also offers beautiful hiking trails and breathtaking views of the surrounding Yaeyama Islands.

The very special way of life in Okinawa combines exoticism, tradition and a warm welcome. The Japanese prefecture consists of around 160 islands, only 49 of which are inhabited. The relaxed way of life, also known as “Okinawa Time”, creates a special atmosphere and is the secret to the long lifespan of many of its inhabitants – Ogimi, a village on the main island, is home to many centenarians. Naha, the capital of Okinawa, is the gateway to the islands and offers cultural highlights including Shuri Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Shinto Naminoue Shrine overlooks Naminoue Beach, offering an amazing view over the sea and another place to appreciate the unique charm of the island.

Nagasaki is a place steeped in history and cultural treasures. Glover Garden, a beautiful park with villas dating back to the Meiji era, reflects the rich history of this vibrant city. Impressive temples such as Sofuku-ji, built in the 17th century by Chinese immigrants, and the striking Meganebashi arched stone bridge, which looks like a pair of glasses with its reflection in the water, are waiting to be discovered. A trip up the Inasayama by cable car offers breathtaking panoramic views and an unforgettable experience. As well as all these sights, the Peace Park and the Atom Bomb Museum are reminders of the tragic events when the second atomic bomb was dropped on Nagasaki in 1945 and of the rebuilding of the city to make Nagasaki what it has become today.

On Jeju, the second largest island in South Korea, you will find a mix of sandy beaches, steep cliffs and impressive volcanic landscapes. The island is particularly famous for the imposing crater of the Hallasan volcano – the highest point in South Korea at around 2,000 m (6,562 ft). Its romantic atmosphere makes Jeju a popular destination for newly-weds, while the last “mermaids” of South Korea, the Haenyeo, maintain the island’s diving traditions.

Busan stood in Seoul’s shadow for a long time, before becoming a popular destination in its own right. Today, South Korea’s second largest city attracts visitors with its idyllic coastline, busy markets and vibrant way of life. Highlights include the 1.5 km (just under a mile) long Haeundae Beach and Geumjeongsan Mountain. From the mountain range’s highest peak, Godangbong, you can enjoy breathtaking views over Busan. The famous Haedong Yonggungsa Temple also offers some fascinating insights and outlooks thanks to its spectacular location on the edge of a cliff. Art enthusiasts will find what they are looking for in the vibrant Gamcheon Culture Village, where local artists sell their works in colourful houses.

In lively Fukuoka, you can experience the fast pace of Japanese civilisation, whose origins date back to 300 BC. The authentic atmosphere is particularly apparent at the rustic Yatai street stalls, where locals slurp ramen and swap recipes. Fukuoka is an attractive city with modern highlights including the enormous Canal City shopping and entertainment centre, which has an artificial canal flowing through it. Cultural and historic gems like the Dazaifu Temple stand as testament to the city’s importance in the 7th century, when it was the political and cultural centre of Kyushu Island. The history of the Futsukaichi Onsen hot springs go back just as far and still today offer a great place for a relaxing bath.

Situated on the third largest island in Japan, Beppu attracts many visitors to its thermal springs every year. The eight large springs, known as Beppu Hatto, each have a unique character and are an inviting place to take a relaxing bath. From hot springs to bubbling mud pools, the town has an impressive variety of thermal baths. The rising steam, coupled with the typical sulphur smell, create a mystical atmosphere.

Kobe is a modern, international city with many unique attractions to offer. These include settlements in Kitano with its former foreign residences, the lively Nankinmachi Chinatown and the Nada Sake district. The Rokko mountain range attracts hikers with spectacular views, while Arima Onsen is known for its thermal springs. A cable car takes visitors up to the Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden with its beautiful plants and flowers and in the port district, visitors can find the Kobe Daibutsu, one of Japan’s three great Buddha statues.