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Tokyo Tower
At 1,092 feet (333 meters) tall, Tokyo Tower is an impressive Japanese landmark offering 360-degree views of the city from its two observation decks. Built in 1958 from red and white latticed steel, the Eiffel Tower-inspired structure houses a wax museum, a Shinto Shrine, an aquarium, restaurants, and other entertainment spots.
The Basics
Tokyo Tower’s two high-rise observatories are its most popular draws, with panoramic views that show off the city below. The lower main observatory sits on top of Foot Town, Tokyo Tower’s entertainment hub, while the more lofty special observatory is at 820 feet (250 meters) and offers views of Mt. Fuji on clear days.
Most city sightseeing tours include a visit to Tokyo Tower, whether you choose an option by bus, bike, or Go-Kart. Private and small-group tours are available, with some combo tours also including a Sumida River cruise. To see Tokyo Tower from above, opt for a private helicopter tour of the city.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Tokyo Tower is a must-see for photographers and first-time visitors to the city.
- The tower contains multiple restaurants, ranging from a food court to formal sit-down venues.
- Both viewing observatories are accessible by elevator.
- If you are afraid of heights, Tokyo Tower may not be for you.
How to Get There
Tokyo Tower is located in the Shiba-koen district of Minato. Public transportation is a good way to travel in the city, and the nearest subway stop is Akabanebashi Station on the Oedo subway line. Turn left out of the ticket gate and head to the Akabanebashi Crossing exit. From there, it’s a 5-minute walk to Tokyo Tower.
When to Get There
The main observatory is open from 9am to 11pm daily, while the special observatory is open from 9am to 10pm. Arrive at dusk to see impressive nighttime views of Tokyo’s city lights.
Tokyo Tower Highlights
On the first floor travelers will find an aquarium of more than 50,000 fish, a souvenir shop, and multiple restaurants. The second floor houses the food court featuring Japanese eats like ramen and soba noodles, as well as pizza and ice cream. On the third floor is a wax museum and the Guinness World Record Museum. The fourth floor houses an arcade center, while the top floor holds the special observatory and roof garden.
Address: 4-2-8 Shiba-Koen, Minato-ku, Tokyo 105-0011, Japan
Admission: Varies
From $ 50
Tokyo Sea Life Park
Across the bay from Tokyo Disneyland you will easily spot the distinctive glass dome of the city's largest aquarium. Located in Kasai Rinkai park, this government-run aquarium is an inexpensive alternative to some of the city's flashier sea parks while still being quite impressive in its own right.
The exhibits each focus on sea life from a different environment: the Atlantic, Indian Ocean, the Caribbean and an extensive exhibit on the local Tokyo Bay. In the watery blue depths you'll encounter giant spider crabs, deep sea isopods, hammerhead sharks and more. There's an enormous theater-style tuna exhibit. Outside of the water you'll encounter a waterbird sanctuary featuring puffins and a fun penguin exhibit. The park is also home to Japan's largest Ferris Wheel.
The exhibits each focus on sea life from a different environment: the Atlantic, Indian Ocean, the Caribbean and an extensive exhibit on the local Tokyo Bay. In the watery blue depths you'll encounter giant spider crabs, deep sea isopods, hammerhead sharks and more. There's an enormous theater-style tuna exhibit. Outside of the water you'll encounter a waterbird sanctuary featuring puffins and a fun penguin exhibit. The park is also home to Japan's largest Ferris Wheel.
Practical Info
The aquarium is located 5 minutes on foot from the JR Kasai Rinkai Koen Station. Take the Tozai line and get off at Kasai Station or Nishi-Kasai Station. You can also take the Tokyo Mizube line.
Address: Tokyo Sea Life Park, 6-2-3, Rinkai-cho, Edogawa-ku, Tokyo 134-8587, Japan
Hours: Thurs-Tues 9:30am-5:00pm. Closed on Wednesdays.
Admission: Adults: 700 yen; Students: 250 yen; Seniors: 350 yen
From $ 81
Trick Eye Museum
The Trick Eye Museums originated in Korea and can now be found all across Asia. The museums use art techniques to transforms 2D paintings into 3D images to create fascinating optical illusions, not to mention some great photo opportunities.
The Trick Eye Museum in Singapore features 90 artworks throughout six distinctly themed zones. These include: World of Masterpieces, Safari Kingdom, Star of Circus, Dream of Fairy Tale, Love In Winter, and Adventure Discovery. Many of the pieces have been specifically designed for the Singapore museum, featuring elements of the nation’s culture such as the Merlion – the country’s most iconic symbol.
This interactive museum allows its visitors to ‘step inside’ the art to create a visual narrative, encouraging people to use their imaginations and sense of humor as they pose and connect with the artwork.
Practical Info
The Trick Eye Museum in Singapore is located within Resorts World, Sentosa, near Universal Studios. To reach it by train, take the Sentosa Express to Waterfront Station. It is also accessible via a number of bus routes.
Address: 26 Sentosa Gateway, 098138, Singapore
Hours: Daily 10am-9pm (last admission: 8pm)
Admission: Adult: $25; Child: $20
From $ 19
Tokyo Solamachi
Since its completion in 2011, the Tokyo Skytree, the world’s second tallest building, has become the most visible landmark in Tokyo. At its base, you’ll find Tokyo Solamachi, the largest shopping, dining and entertainment venue in the city with more than 300 shops and restaurants.
If you want to visit the viewing gallery on the building’s 450th floor, you’ll have to book your tickets ahead of time. Once you’re back at the bottom, take some time to shop at the Solamachi mall. The shops sell a huge variety of wares, including local crafts, Japanese housewares, souvenir shops and an entire floor of cartoon and character shops.
Come hungry, because the complex has a large market, a food court and four floors of restaurants serving Japanese and global cuisine. If you’ve had enough shopping but you still need to kill some time, check out the onsite aquarium and planetariums.
If you want to visit the viewing gallery on the building’s 450th floor, you’ll have to book your tickets ahead of time. Once you’re back at the bottom, take some time to shop at the Solamachi mall. The shops sell a huge variety of wares, including local crafts, Japanese housewares, souvenir shops and an entire floor of cartoon and character shops.
Come hungry, because the complex has a large market, a food court and four floors of restaurants serving Japanese and global cuisine. If you’ve had enough shopping but you still need to kill some time, check out the onsite aquarium and planetariums.
Practical Info
Open daily 10am-11pm, but some stores may have different hours. Accessible by the Tobu Skytree Line and connects directly to the Tokyo Skytree Station.
Address: Tokyo 131-0045, Japan
Hours: 10am-11pm, varies by store
From $ 81
TramOramic
Get an overview of some of Hong Kong’s best sights on a 1-hour sightseeing tour aboard an open-top 1920s-style tram, which includes an onboard guide, prerecorded commentary, and a mini museum. Gain insight into Hong Kong life and history as you pass by bustling streets, modern skyscrapers, historic landmarks, and top attractions.
The Basics
TramOramic operates in two directions: choose to start at Western Market and head east to Causeway Bay, or vice versa. Either way, this tour takes you through Central, a dynamic business hub and home to many famous skyscrapers such as I.M. Pei’s Bank of China Tower; Wan Chai, a popular shopping, nightlife, and entertainment district; and Happy Valley, home to the Happy Valley Racecourse. Get oriented on this 1-hour tour, then explore the city at your leisure using the included 2-day unlimited hop-on hop-off pass on Hong Kong Tramways; choose among six routes and various thematic journeys between Shau Kei Wan and Kennedy Town.
Things to Know Before You Go
- A TramOramic tour is a great way for first-time visitors to Hong Kong to see some highlights and get the lay of the land.
- The best seats are at the front of the upper deck.
- Prerecorded commentary is available in Mandarin, Cantonese, English, Japanese, Korean, Spanish, French, and Russian.
- Free disposable headsets and rain jackets are provided as necessary.
- Free Wi-Fi is available on board.
How to Get There
You can board the TramOramic at either the Western Market terminus or the Causeway Bay terminus. To get to the Western Market terminus, take the MTR to Sheung Wan (Exit B), and walk along Des Voeux Road Central. To get to the Causeway Bay terminus, take the MTR to Causeway Bay (Exit E) and walk along Yee Woo Street.
When to Get There
TramOramic tours run year-round. Trams depart Western Market at 10:30am, 2:30pm, and 6:30pm, and Causeway Bay at 11:40am, 3:45pm, and 5:55 pm. Arrive early to get the best seats. The upper deck is open-air, which may not be ideal when it rains, although rain jackets are provided as needed.
Key Sights Along the TramOramic Tour
Some of the sights and landmarks that you see during a TramOramic Tour include the Macau Ferry Terminal, Man Wa Lane, Statue Square, the Legislative Council building, the Supreme Court, HSBC Main Building, Bank of China Tower, Pacific Place, Lippo Centre, Happy Valley Racecourse, Happy Valley cemeteries, and Times Square.
Address: China
From $ 12
Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre
Set in the heart of Luang Prabang, the Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre is a small museum dedicated to four of Laos’ main ethnic minority groups. Displays include traditional costumes, religious artifacts, and crafts, while exhibits feature signage in French, English, and Lao. The shop is a great source of ethical artisan souvenirs.
The Basics
Tickets to the Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre are affordably priced, and revenue goes to support cultural diversity in Laos. Visiting with a guide can help bring the displays to life, and tours with museum guides and curators are available on-site.
Thanks to its central location, the museum is easily visited on foot or by bicycle, and a guide is not required. While many visitors simply wander by as part of their Luang Prabang explorations, the Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre is an occasional stop on Luang Prabang city tours.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre is a must-visit for anyone interested in minority groups and those planning to explore northern Laos.
- 50% of each sale from TAEC’s museum shop goes to producers, overwhelmingly minority women who use the revenue to support their families.
- The museum runs half-day workshops in crafts including Hmong embroidery and Khmu bamboo weaving. Book in advance.
- Children under 12 receive free admission to TAEC and coloring materials or a treasure hunt game. A dedicated activity center features hands-on crafts plus costumes for souvenir photos.
How to Get There
The Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre is around half a mile (750 meters) from the Royal Palace, at the base of Mt. Phousi. It’s an easy walk or cycle from most central Luang Prabang locations, but hiring a private driver for the day can enable you to combine it with attractions farther afield.
When to Get There
The Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre is open morning to early evening every day but Monday. It’s worth visiting with time in hand to spare for the shop, while the craft workshops, which need to be reserved in advance, operate in the mornings. Free TAEC tours are offered on Tuesday and Friday afternoons.
TAEC and Laos’ Minority Groups
With a population of around seven million, Laos is home to roughly 50 different ethnicities, further subdivided into approximately 160 ethnic groups. The Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre focuses on four of the larger ethnicities—Hmong, Khmu, Akha, and Tai Dam—their rich traditions, colorful costumes, and unique handicrafts. A social enterprise, the museum helps support these minority cultures.
Address: Dala Market, Luang Prabang, Laos
Admission: Varies
From $ 69
Treasure Hill
Treasure Hill, one of Taipei’s oldest historical settlements, underwent a major transformation in 2010, transforming it into a living artists’ village, complete with performance spaces, galleries and shops squeezed together along the narrow alleys and stairways of the hillside community.
The settlement dates back to the 1940s when its illegally built structures served as an antiaircraft base for the military. The entire neighborhood was closed off in 2007 to allow for its restoration and preservation, and when the government reopened Treasure Hill in 2010, 22 of the original families moved back in to participate in the Treasure Hill Artists Village Program.
The settlement dates back to the 1940s when its illegally built structures served as an antiaircraft base for the military. The entire neighborhood was closed off in 2007 to allow for its restoration and preservation, and when the government reopened Treasure Hill in 2010, 22 of the original families moved back in to participate in the Treasure Hill Artists Village Program.
Practical Info
The Artists-in-Resident program provides 14 studios for three to six
month residencies for local and international artists, with the aim of
fostering community participation in the arts. Visitors are free to
wander through the village and pop into the open studios to see both
completed works and works in progress. Treasure Hill also hosts
exhibitions, workshops and other educational programs from time to time.
Transit: MRT Gongguan Station (Green line) to Gongguan Station Exit 1. Turn left to Dingzhou Rd. Sec. 3. Walk to Dingzhou Rd. Sec. 3 Ln. 230 for 5-7 minutes. Treasure Hill, Treasure Hill Artist Village.
Transit: MRT Gongguan Station (Green line) to Gongguan Station Exit 1. Turn left to Dingzhou Rd. Sec. 3. Walk to Dingzhou Rd. Sec. 3 Ln. 230 for 5-7 minutes. Treasure Hill, Treasure Hill Artist Village.
Address: No. 2, Alley 14, Ln. 230 Dingzhou Rd. Sec. 3, Taipei, Taiwan
Hours: Tue-Sun 11:00am - 9:00pm. Exhibitions Close at 6:00pm. Operations hours of each Micro Loft Studio are different.
From $ 28
Trang An Grottoes
Open-topped rowboats captained by locals in conical hats regularly ferry passengers down the sleepy Sao Khe River to the Trang An Grottes—a series of a dozen otherworldly caverns, tunnels and caves. Boats park outside the best formations and allow visitors to clamber inside for a closer look, or float all the way through affording passing glimpses of hanging stalactites overhead.
The caves themselves are not as spectacular as some of the other Vietnamese cave systems—some say they’ve been recently altered to accommodate a surge in boat traffic due to its increasing popularity—but the surrounding scenery makes a trip to Trang An Grottoes more than worthwhile. The river meanders through electric green rice paddies, past above ground karst formations reminiscent of the water-surrounded pillars of Ha Long Bay and alongside impressive and remote temples. What’s more, the Trang An Grottoes are conveniently accessible from Hanoi making for an idyllic escape from the busy city.
Practical Info
The Trang An Grottes, part of Trang An Natural Reserve, are about 9 kilometers west of Ninh Binh and about 90 kilometers south of Hanoi. A popular attraction for Vietnamese tourists, the Trang An Grottoes can be crowded at midday. If you’ll be securing a boat on your own, you’ll want to go in the morning or late afternoon—the last boat leaves around 4 p.m. Day trips from Hanoi often have arrangements with boat captains to ensure the tour goes smoothly and usually include a stop at the impressive and nearby Bai Dinh Temple.
Boat trips to the grottoes take between two and three hours. An entrance fee of 100,000VND (around $4.50) will cover a boat for up to four people and is often included in package tour prices. Note that because rowboats are open-top, it’s best to come prepared with a hat and sunscreen.
Address: Ninh Binh, Vietnam
Admission: 100,000VND (around $4.50)
From $ 38
Tomb of Minh Mang
Located 12 kilometers outside of Hue, the Tomb of Minh Mang honors the late Nguyen Dynasty emperor. Beautifully preserved gardens and flower-lined walkways make this picturesque tomb's entrance fee (about USD $5) worth the cost of admission. Tomb of Minh Mang is part of a large complex that sits on the west bank of the Perfume River and includes a summer home and lake. Photographers will love the scenic views and lush landscapes, while meditative sorts will appreciate the well-kept grounds and tranquil setting.
Practical Info:
Only a few signs identify this tomb, so it can be difficult to find. Hop a motor taxi or participate in a local historical tour to avoid the hassle of finding Tomb of Minh Mang on your own. It’s best to visit in the early morning before crowds arrive. The tomb is also accessible by Dragon Boat on the Perfume River.
Address: 49, Hương Thọ Thua Thien, Hue Province, Vietnam
Admission: $5
From $ 39
Tomb of Tu Duc
It took nearly three years to build some 50 structures that make up the Tomb of Tu Duc, located 8 kilometers outside of Hue amid an expansive pine forest. The grounds are divided into two main parts—tomb and temple areas. Near the entrance visitors can wander the pavilion where the emperor once perched to compose poems and admire the flowers. This leads to his work station, and ultimately to his resting place. The impressive tomb, located just beyond the Honor Courtyard, houses a massive stone engraved with a narrative written by the Emperor himself.
Practical Info:
Visit after the rainy season, when the tomb’s foliage is in full bloom. Tomb of Tu Duc is accessible by bike from Hue. The ride along the Perfume River is flat and scenic. Open daily from 7:30 a.m. until 5:30 pm.
Address: Thủy Xuân, Hue Thua Thien, Hue Province, Vietnam
Hours: Open Daily: 7:30am - 5pm.
From $ 49
Tokyo Metropolitan Government Office (TMG)
The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Office, more commonly known as Tokyo City Hall or Tochō, is one of the most distinctive and famous buildings in the Tokyo skyline. Tokyo is a huge city and their governmental offices are huge too, taking up three city blocks with three immense buildings.
The tallest is Tokyo Metropolitan Main Building No. 1, built to resemble both a computer chip and a gothic cathedral. It splits at level 33 into two twin towers which stretch to a height 48 stories, making it the tallest building in the city for many years.
Both towers have observation decks free to the public on level 45, 202 meters high. On really clear days, you might even spot Mt Fuji to the west. The view from the southern tower is considered slightly better but the northern tower remains open later, making it more suitable for night viewing.
The tallest is Tokyo Metropolitan Main Building No. 1, built to resemble both a computer chip and a gothic cathedral. It splits at level 33 into two twin towers which stretch to a height 48 stories, making it the tallest building in the city for many years.
Both towers have observation decks free to the public on level 45, 202 meters high. On really clear days, you might even spot Mt Fuji to the west. The view from the southern tower is considered slightly better but the northern tower remains open later, making it more suitable for night viewing.
Practical Info
Observatory hours: 9:30am - 11:00 pm, entry ends 30 minutes before closing. The South Observatory closes at 5:30 pm. However, it closes at 11:00 pm on days that the North Observatory is closed. South Observatory is closed the first and third Tuesday of every month. North Observatory is closed the second and fourth Monday of every month. When one of the days falls on a holiday, the observatory will be open on the holiday but closed the following day. The observatories will be closed during the New Year's holiday season (29-31 December and 2-3 January). Observatories are open on January 1. Admission is free. Accessible by train, via Tochomae Station, Shinjuku Station, Nishishinjuku Station and Shinjuku Nishiguchi Station.
Address: 8-1 Nishi-Shinjuku 2-chome, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 163-8001, Japan
Hours: Sun-Mon 9:30am-11pm
From $ 54
Tomb of Emperor Jingdi (Hanyangling)
In addition to the world-famous terra cotta warriors, another excavation site of a famous Chinese emperor can be found in Xian. Emperor Jingdi reigned from 11-141 BC and unlike other emperors, he had a very passive approach to ruling. As a staunch follower of Confucianism, he was a capable leader and tried to improve the lives of his subjects by reducing taxes and avoiding diplomatic conflicts. Accordingly, his reign is considered a golden era for the people and the imperial family and was only once marred by a successfully averted rebellion.
In the typical hierarchical fashion of ancient China, the Tomb of Emperor Jingdi itself can be found at the very center of the complex, while various smaller burial pits and tombs are scattered around it. Visitors can see the over 40,000 excavated clay figures of animals, warriors and officials – mostly miniature forms of their real-life counterparts – and other artifacts in the various pits in the subterranean Hanyangling Museum by donning blue shoe covers and carefully walking on a glass floor over the ongoing excavation site. While some might consider the life-sized terracotta warriors more impressive, this miniature version allows a closer look at the small sculptures. Although their dress made of cloth and wood has long ago decayed and the figurines are now naked, they, together with various prepared information such as a 3D film offer a detailed insight into the social structure and life at the time of the Han Dynasty.
Practical Info
From the beginning of March to the end of November, the museum is open from 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m., while during the rest of the year the site closes an hour earlier at 6 p.m. The Tomb of Emperor Jingdi is located about 20 kilometers north of Xian in Zhangjiawan Village. You can get there by taking the bus number 50, 207, 228, 230, 328 or K616 to Xian City Sports Park and then hopping on the Tourist Bus number 4 the rest of the way to the stop Yangling Mausoleum.
Address: Zhanjiawan Village, Xian, China
From $ 18
Tra Que Village
Old-school farmers at Tra Que vegetable village in the Cam Ha Commune use traditional techniques to produce some of the region’s most unique crops. Guided farmland tours provide visitors with detailed explanations of growing seasons as well as opportunities to sample freshly-picked, local herbs. Rent bicycles and explore the scenic landscape of Tra Que, then stop off at independent workshops to purchase local crafts before enjoying a traditional dinner with a glass of regional peach wine.
Practical Info:
Tours depart daily from Hoi An and most include transportation, a meal
and cost about $5-12USD. Bike rides are easy and flat, making them
perfect for families.
The city of Hoi An was once considered a destination by Japanese traders who believed the heart of East Asia beat below the port town’s cobbled streets. Today, travelers can feel the pulse of Vietnam’s old and new meeting in this historic town. Ancient temples and classic architecture exist alongside modern storefronts, innovative cuisine and expert tailors. The historic town offers sites and activities to keep everyone content.
The city of Hoi An was once considered a destination by Japanese traders who believed the heart of East Asia beat below the port town’s cobbled streets. Today, travelers can feel the pulse of Vietnam’s old and new meeting in this historic town. Ancient temples and classic architecture exist alongside modern storefronts, innovative cuisine and expert tailors. The historic town offers sites and activities to keep everyone content.
Address: Hai Ba Trung Street, Hoi An, Vietnam, Hoi An, Vietnam
Hours: 7:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.
From $ 34
Tran Quoc Pagoda
One of the oldest pagodas in Vietnam, and the oldest in Hanoi, Tran Quoc Pagoda was built in during the reign of Emperor Ly Nam De (AD 541–547) and moved to its present location in 1615. Located on an islet within West Lake, Tran Quoc Pagoda offers beautiful architecture, historic relics and artifacts, and a serene and scenic environment.
The Basics
The most recognizable part of the pagoda is the main stupa, which stands 49-feet (15-meters) tall and features 11 levels and gemstone statues of Amitabha within each vaulted window. At the very top is a 9-story lotus made from gemstone. Surrounding the stupa are an array of statues, ancient steles, incense-burning houses, a Buddhist shrine, and a museum housing historical relics, some dating back over a thousand years. Don’t miss the gold sculpture of the Shakyamuni Buddha's Parinirvana.
Tran Quoc Pagoda is very popular and features on many sightseeing tours of Hanoi, which typically also include other top attractions like the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, One Pillar Pagoda, and the Temple of Literature. If you want to experience Hanoi like a local, take a bicycle or motorbike tour around the city. It’s also possible to combine sightseeing with a cyclo ride, food tasting, or water puppet show.
Things to Know Before You Go
- This is an active place of worship, so visitors should be respectful of worshippers.
- Visitors must wear modest clothing that covers the shoulders and knees.
- It’s free to enter the pagoda, but donations are encouraged.
How to Get There
Tran Quoc Pagoda is located near the eastern shore of West Lake. It’s connected to Thanh Nien Road by a small causeway. From the center of Hanoi, it’s about a 20-minute taxi ride to get to the eastern shore of West Lake. Or you can take bus 14.
When to Get There
Tran Quoc Pagoda is open daily, with a break for lunch, so time your visit accordingly. For the most striking photos, visit around sunset. The pagoda will be at its most festive, and most packed, during Tet (Vietnamese New Year) and Buddha’s birthday.
Bodhi Tree
In 1950, when Indian Prime Minister Razendia Prasat visited Vietnam, he visited Tran Quoc Pagoda and presented a bodhi tree as a gift. The tree was grafted from the bodhi tree in Bodh Gaya, India, where Gautama Buddha was said to have sat in meditation and achieved enlightenment. The bodhi tree sits in the courtyard of Tran Quoc Pagoda and can be recognized by its heart-shaped leaves.
Address: Tanh Nien Road, Hanoi, Vietnam
From $ 28
Tra Nhieu
Those who enjoy the great outdoors and want to better understand the history and culture of Vietnam’s rural communities shouldn’t miss a trip to Tra Nhieu. Officially recognized as an ecological village in order to preserve its traditional fishing and farming life, Tra Nhieu is located along the banks of the Thu Bon River, not far from Hoi An.
A peaceful and simple village, the bamboo-lined lanes wind around traditional garden houses, giving visitors a glimpse of local life. While in the village you will get to see the local community’s activities relating to river life, as well as a wide range of other trades, such as farming, rice-paper making, and basket-boat making. You you can also sample some regional food made from local ingredients.
There are various Tra Nhieu eco tours departing from Hoi An, including half-day and full-day cycling tours through the countryside, with boat trips often included. For a unique cycling adventure around Hoi An that diverts from the usual tourist itineraries, book a full-day off the beaten path bicycling tour, which includes a visit to Tra Nhieu village.
Insider’s Tip: Most tours will give you the chance to paddle a thung chai across the river – a traditional bamboo basket boat used throughout rural Vietnam. Also, don’t miss a walk over the water coconut forest on the village’s bamboo bridge.
Practical Info
To make the most of your time in Tra Nhieu, most tours start early in the morning. If not traveling as part of a tour, ride your bicycle or moped over the new bridge from Hoi An and take a left at the end.
Address: Tra Nhieu, Hoi An, Vietnam
From $ 48
Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah
Nicknamed the Baby Taj, the Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah in Agra was built from 1622 to 1628 by the daughter of Mizra Ghiyas Beg, the Persian nobleman entombed within the marble structure. While not as jaw-dropping as the Taj Mahal, this smaller tomb has many connections to its more famous counterpart. As a forerunner to the Taj Mahal, the Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah was innovative for its time -- it was the first Mughal structure made entirely out of marble.
The two structures also have a personal connection. Mizra Ghiyas Beg was the grandfather of Mumtaz Mahal, for whom the Taj Mahal was built.
While smaller than the Taj, this tomb is arguably more delicate and ornate. The inlays, mosaics and marble lattice screens likely served as inspiration to Shah Jahan, and it’s possible to see them up close without the crowds that often plague the Taj Mahal. It’s a place most travelers to Agra never see, but it’s well worth a visit.
Address: Agra, India
Hours: Daily Sunrise to Sunset
From $ 28
Tokyo Skytree
Since opening in 2012, the Tokyo Skytree has taken the title of Japan’s tallest building—and one of the tallest in the world—measuring an incredible 2,080 feet (634 meters) high. In addition to serving as a TV and radio broadcast tower, it has two observation decks affording spectacular views across Tokyo and the distant Mount Fuji.
The Basics
Visitors can gaze across the Tokyo skyline from the tower’s two observation decks. A standard entrance ticket offers access to the Skytree Tembo Deck at 1,148 feet (350 meters), while an upgrade also gives access to the Tembo Galleria at 1,476 feet (450 meters).
Pre-booking an e-ticket for the Skytree is the best way to avoid long lines, and a popular choice is to combine it with a sightseeing tour of Tokyo, taking in other top attractions such as the Imperial Palace, Sensō-ji temple, the National Diet Building, and the Ginza entertainment district. For views of the tower itself, set sail on a cruise around Tokyo Bay or soar overhead on a thrilling helicopter flight.
Things to Know Before You Go
- All visitors must pass through security and bag checks to enter the tower.
- On-site facilities include paid parking, restrooms, a café, restaurant, and gift shops.
- The Tokyo Skytree is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
How to Get There
The Tokyo Skytree is located in the Sumida District of Tokyo, and the entrance is on the 4th floor of the Tokyo Skytree Town entertainment complex. Catch a train or a bus (around 30 minutes from Tokyo Station) to Tokyo Skytree Station or Oshiage (Skytree) or walk across the Sumida River from Asakusa (around 20 minutes).
When to Get There
The Tokyo Skytree is open daily all year round, but it can get busy, especially during the summer season (June–August). Opt for an early morning visit to avoid the main crowds, or visit in the evening for a dazzling night view of Tokyo’s illuminated skyline.
Tokyo Skytree Town
The Tokyo Skytree is part of a gigantic, multistory entertainment complex—Tokyo Skytree Town—and it’s worth leaving yourself extra time to explore. Highlights include the enormous Solamachi shopping mall with over 300 shops, a large food court with everything from fast food to fine dining, the Sumida Aquarium, a planetarium, and the quirky Postal Museum Japan.
Address: Japan
Admission: Varies
From $ 54
Tonl e Sap
This great lake covering 1,000 square miles (2,600 square kilometers) is not only the largest body of fresh water in Southeast Asia, it’s also a UNESCO-designated biosphere due to its remarkable natural features. The flow of water in Tonlé Sap changes direction twice during the course of the year, expanding and contracting with the seasons.
The Basics
Most travelers choose to experience Tonlé Sap by boat, whether en route between Siem Reap and Phnom Penh or during a daytime or sunset dinner cruise. Depending on the option chosen, a sightseeing boat ride might include a visit to Chong Khneas floating village of stilted houses, a fish and crocodile farm, and a meal at a traditional Khmer floating restaurant.
Those with an interest in the lake’s biodiversity can opt for a day trip to Prek Toal Bird Sanctuary, a biosphere reserve that’s home to more than 150 bird species.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Tonlé Sap is a must-see for adventure travelers and first-time visitors.
- Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat when cruising the lake.
- Many boat tours on the lake include hotel pickup and drop-off.
- Tonlé Sap day trips can last anywhere from four to nine hours, depending on the option chosen.
How to Get There
Most tours of the lake depart from Chong Khneas, located 7.5 miles (12 kilometers) south of Siem Reap. The easiest way to get to the lake is on a guided tour.
When to Get There
From November to May—the country’s dry season—Tonlé Sap empties into the Mekong River, making the lake’s natural features much less spectacular. If you want to get out on the lake when it’s at its largest, plan to visit during the rainy season (August and September) when the waters reverse and the enormous lake forms. Water levels are at their lowest between April and June. The best bird viewing happens between December and April.
The People of Tonlé Sap
Spend some time on the lake, and you’ll quickly realize that most residents of the stilted houses and floating villages are fishermen. Many of these families are ethnic Vietnamese who’ve been in the trade for decades. For the most authentic view of life on the lake, head farther afield to the villages near Kampong Chhnang and Pursat.
Address: Cambodia
From $ 19
Tomb of Khai Dinh
Built as a monument and mausoleum for the Nguyen Emperor, Khai Dinh, this impressive tomb is located on a steep slope at the foot of Mount Chau Chu near Hue. The structure is an architectural blend of Vietnamese and Western influences that took 11 years to build, with the construction beginning in 1920 and finishing in 1931.
Upon crossing the gateway to the imperial tomb, visitors must climb 37 steps and proceed up further levels to reach the extravagant main building of Thien Dinh. The walls here are adorned with designs carved from porcelain and glass, while the floor is covered with enameled flowers. Above, the room’s elaborate ceiling features nine depictions of intricately designed dragons amid swirling clouds. At the centre of the main room sits the bronze statue of Khai Dinh, his altar, and his grave beneath.
Practical Info
The Tomb of Khai Dinh is located approximately 10 kilometers from Hue city centre along Highway 49. It’s open daily from 7am until 11:30am and again from 1:30 pm to 5:30pm. There is a small admission fee to enter.
Address: Hue, Vietnam
Hours: Open daily 7:00am-11:30am and 1:30pm-5:30pm
Admission: Small fee
From $ 39
Toyohira River
The Toyohira River stretches for 45 miles (72.5 kilometers) through Hokkaido province, providing the city of Sapporo with its water before emptying into the larger Ishikari River. Sapporo, the capital of the province, got its name from the river’s original Ainu name, Sapporo Pet.
The region of Jōzankei along the upper Toyohira has long been famous for its onsen, hot springs resorts, which are particularly popular for winter relaxation. The river then flows north and parallels the city, offering some of the best parkland during the warmer summer months. The Sapporo Salmon Museum, located west of downtown, gives a history of the salmon industry in the Toyohira River.
The Toyohira River hosts two popular summer festivals, the Toyohira Fireworks and the Toyohira Rafting Festival. The former comprises an elaborate hour-long pyrotechnic show with some 4,000 fireworks lighting up the night sky. During the latter, competitors race to see who can make it farthest down the river in homemade rafts and amusing costumes.
Practical Info
If you’re looking for something free to do in Sapporo, head to the river banks where you’ll find a series of walking and biking trails to explore.
Address: Sapporo, Japan
From $ 72