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.

Kaosiung is located in southwestern Taiwan. This busy city offers tourists plenty of attractions. For example, you can climb the Shoushan, in English the "Mountain of Longevity", on which there are several temples and pavilions. The Martyrs Shrine at the top of the mountain offers a spectacular view.

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 Amani is the main in the Amami islands, that are part of the Ryukyu Archipelago and belong to the Kagoshima Prefecture of Japan. Listen to the native folk songs 'shumauta', learn the Amani sign language or just lose yourself on a stroll on its beautiful coast.

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The Kanmon Straits or Straits of Shimonoseki is the stretch of water separating two of Japan's four main islands.

With its beautiful scenery - hotsprings, mountains in the background and sea at the front, Beppu attracts many tourists each year. Visit the Takasakiyama Monkey Park, or the Otobaru Waterfall. For the more adventurous, there is the Wonder Rakutenchi amusement park as well as the Firework Festival which takes place in late July.