Tokyo photo op: Here’s a chance to see how you look in full geisha garb, makeup and all.

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Why stop at pandas? There are many other ways you can interact with the world’s most adorable animals.

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You haven’t had a bear hug until you’ve cuddled with a panda (or better yet, a panda cub). There’s a reserve deep in China that makes it possible.

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The smartest ways to see seven wonders of the modern world.

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Flashy buildings get all the press, but bridges are making an even more dramatic leap forward. Here are the 12 most worth a detour.

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For years, to reach the spectacular Jiuzhaigou National Nature Reserve, you had to fly to the Sichuan provincial capital, Chengdu, and then take an eight-hour bus ride north. But in 2003, Jiuhuang Airport opened 90 minutes from the reserve; flights from Chengdu and a few smaller cities followed. …

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Ryokans are traditional Japanese inns with distinctively Japanese ambiance and decor. They give travelers the feeling of home-staying which is an atmosphere and experience not found in Japanese hotels.

Staying in a Ryokan

Budget Ryokan

Ryokan is a travel experience designed more for leisure tourist than for business travelers. What makes them different from Japanese hotel is their superb home-like service, including the hot spring (Onsen) and the wonderful meals that are usually served in-room.


Upper and medium priced ryokan are often situated at quaint neighborhoods and charge guest at per person, even if the guests are staying in the same room. The charges include daily meals which are equivalent to an elaborate cultural feast. Budget ryokan are charged per room and do not include meals.

Facilities In Budget Ryokan

Owners of budget ryokan are usually friendly to provide guests with home-staying experience unique only to ryokan. Budget ryokan usually situates near the train station and bilingual, detailed map of the neighborhood with shops and restaurants is always available.


Most budget ryokan offers option of private bath. Rooms and bathrooms of budget ryokan are always tidy and clean. Most rooms in budget ryokan offers partition for the sleeping area with the futon to be blocked off with sliding shoji screen doors.