What you may not know about Hong Kong is that an astonishing 70% of it is made up of green areas and mountains, filled with historical and natural wonders. Yes, it is well-known for being a shopper's paradise, but it is also so much more. As one of the culinary capitals of the world, Hong Kong offers you the opportunity to try the best of cuisines of the Cantonese, Sichuanese, Japanes or French variety, to name a few. Time your visit to coincide with a festival in the city, such as the Hong Kong Dragon Boat Carnival or Arts Month for a truly memorable experience.

The port city of Keelung, Taiwan is home to the second most important port in the country. The Keelung Ghost Festival is particularly well-well known and reflects the culture of the country. Boat trips to Keelung Island are a popular tourist activity. The island is essentially a pyramid shaped mountain peak, which from the top offers stunning views over Keelung and the harbour. Heping Island, connected to the city by bridge, is the location of the fish market which offers the freshest local seafood. Of historical interest is the Ershawan Fort, a chinese built fortification.

Hualien is the capital of the district on the Pacific coast of Taiwan. The city, offers pleasant temperatures all year round is known for its beautiful surrounding landscape.

Ishigaki, the southernmost city in Japan, is in the Okinawa Prefecture and has a population of around 45,000. Gongen Do, a 250 year old shrine, is worth a visit, along with the neighbouring Buddhist temple.

The Japanese seaside city of Kagoshima lies in a bay on the southwestern tip of the island. The city is sunny and friendly, it has even been voted Japan's friendliest. The very active Sakurajima volcano that sits across the bay is one of the city's main attractions. The local weather report has a special section for an 'ash forecast' as it falls regularly, coating everything, including cars, laundry and teeth. Kagoshima is often nicknamed 'Naples of the Eastern World' for its volcano and tropical climate.

Nagasaki is located on the third-largest Japanese island of Kyushu on the south-west coast. The city became well known in 1945 when it suffered a nuclear bombing. The city is home to a range of museums, one of which is the atomic bomb museum which commemorates the city's past.

South Korea's second largest city, is a modern port town with skyscrapers and beaches, while the city is also surrounded by towering mountain peaks. Seoul may be the capital but Busan is an energetic city with a soul of its own. Fresh seafood is a city staple as there are sprawling markets offering locals the freshest variety of produce. The city also has numerous trendy nightclubs for partying after a day spent exploring or laying on Haeundae Beach, while October welcomes the Busan International Film Festival.

Jeju is the largest South Korean island. The subtropical climate attracts plenty of national and international visitors. Mountains and volcanoes traverse the island.