Japan

One of the longest suspension bridges in the world with a length of 3911 meters (12,831 ft), the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge is considered as one of Japan's greatest engineering feat. It acts as a link between the city of Kobe and Iwaya, with construction taking 12 years, from 1986 to 1998. Apart from its fine architecture, the Akashi Kaikyo Suspension Bridge is also designed to be resistant to earthquakes and harsh sea currents, as evidenced by how it withstood the effects of the Kobe earthquake in 1995. read more »

Shitennoji Temple is the first Buddhist and oldest officially administered temple in Japan, the spiritual heart of Osaka. The temple's structure includes a five-storied pagoda and the Golden Hall in which Prince Shotoku was enshrined while the turtle pond and the garden of Gokuraku-jodo in the temple signifies the Buddhist paradise. The treasure house exhibits paintings, sculptures, scriptures and other valuable belongings of the temple. read more »

Isuien Garden is a Japanese garden located in Nara, the only walking style garden in Nara. It has been preserved since its creation in the Meiji era. Isuien Garden derives its name from the fac that its ponds are fed by the small adjacent Yoshikigawa River, with Isuien meaning 'garden founded on water'. read more »

Located a 5 minute walk from Kintetsu Nara Station, Hotel Asyl Nara is a ryokan with a homely feeling to it. It aims to live up to its name, with 'Asyl' being the Greek derivative for 'sanctuary' or 'place of healing' for the tired traveler. With its Japanese styled rooms accented with natural wood, their rooms provide a soothing environment for its guests to rest and relax. read more »