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Ainu Eats
Some food cultures are instantly recognisable, while others quietly surprise you with their depth and history. Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost prefecture, is one such place — a region where culinary traditions blend Indigenous Ainu practices with unexpected Western influences, creating a food culture unlike anywhere else in Japan.
Tim Anderson’s new book, Hokkaido, dives deep into this fascinating food landscape, revealing how the region’s volcanic soil and snowy winters have shaped not only its ingredients but also its entire food philosophy. Hokkaido’s famous kombu (sea vegetable) owes its depth of flavour to the mineral-rich waters surrounding the island, while its seafood — crab, scallop, salmon — rivals the best in Japan. Wheat plays a starring role too, making Hokkaido’s ramen heartier and its confections richer, from milk butter ice cream to airy cheesecakes.
Ainu cuisine is rooted in a deep respect for nature, where ingredients are seen as gifts from kamuy (spirit deities), and even foraging follows rituals of gratitude. Today, a renewed interest in Ainu food is emerging, with new restaurants and cooking classes at the National Ainu Museum bringing these traditions to a wider audience.
With its blend of Indigenous wisdom, international influences, and a natural bounty unlike anywhere else in Japan, Hokkaido’s food scene is finally stepping into the spotlight.
Viral Bites
Social media has turned food into a spectacle, a performance where the most dramatic, eye-catching dishes take centre stage. We’ve been eating with our eyes first, and Korean food? It’s built for the spotlight. Think of the hypnotic sizzle of samgyeopsal (meat) on a hot grill, the thick, glistening sauce of tteokbokki (rice cakes) bubbling away, or the cheese pull so mesmerizingly long it defies physics.
But it’s not just about aesthetics. Korean food thrives online because it taps into something deeper — the culture of communal eating. Mukbang, where hosts eat mountains of food while chatting with millions of viewers, was born from Korea’s dining culture, where meals are meant to be social. Even convenience store food in Korea carries a sense of play — mixing instant noodles with cheese, stacking up flavoured milks, customising dosirak lunchboxes. It all encourages interaction, and interactive food makes for viral content.
Then there’s the Hallyu (Korean Wave) effect. K-dramas weave food into their storytelling — a simple bowl of ramyeon becomes a charged moment of romance. Street food scenes become love letters to late-night cravings.
Korean cuisine has mastered the art of making people want in. It’s spicy but sweet, comforting yet adventurous, familiar yet new — just like the content we consume daily. So if you’ve ever found yourself hypnotised by someone dunking fried chicken into spicy sauce, congratulations. You’re part of the story now. And the algorithm? It knows you’re coming back for more.
Turkish Delight
Dondurma is a real cultural treasure all the way from Türkiye that you can try as early as today. This condensed, stretchy, and resistant dessert is the only ice cream in the whole world that should be eaten with a knife and fork. Its texture, unlike any other frozen dessert, is obtained after careful processing, which also includes drying salep (orchids grown for their root tubers) for a year long in the mountainous region of Maraş.
In Istanbul, you can see dondurma masters with many years of experience around many corners. They cut big slices off cylindrical slabs and dust them with pistachio powder before serving it.
The original ingredients of the recipe call for goat’s milk, salep, and beet sugar. And you can actually make dondurma at home. If you can’t find salep, you can also replace it with corn starch. Mix your ingredients well and cook them until thickened, then cool. The trick is constant stirring to give it that right texture. After thickening, freeze the mixture and that’s all, you’re done!
Baggage Claim
Not long ago, luggage was merely a practical necessity — something to haul your stuff from point A to B. But now, it has become a part of the outfit, a travel essential that says as much about you as your destination does. Take the Indian brand Uppercase, for example, which just landed at New York Fashion Week (NYFW) last week, making it clear: suitcases aren’t just rolling behind you anymore — they’re making a statement.
This moment is about more than one brand’s success — it’s part of a broader transformation in how we approach travel. Luggage is no longer just about function; it’s an extension of identity. High-design suitcases, like those from Mokobara, have redefined travel aesthetics, blending sleek looks with smart features. Meanwhile, AI-powered suitcases are making their way into the mainstream, adding tech-driven convenience to the mix. Even luxury giants like LVMH are investing in high-end luggage, solidifying its status as a fashion essential. Uppercase’s debut at NYFW is just the latest sign that travel gear isn’t an afterthought — it’s an integral part of the way we move through the world.
Why does this matter now? Because travel itself has changed. With more people embracing slow travel, remote work, and immersive experiences, luggage is about adaptability, identity, and even aspiration. Whether it’s sleek, minimalist designs or bold, statement-making colours, what we carry reflects how we move through the world. The suitcase has evolved from a forgettable necessity to a key player in the modern travel experience — one that’s just as thoughtfully curated as the journey itself.
Hearth and Heritage
In the hush of a pre-dawn kitchen, steam rises from a pot of simmering rice, curling like incense into the rafters. A monk moves with quiet precision, slicing vegetables, pressing tofu, stirring a fragrant broth — every motion deliberate, every meal an act of devotion. Across the world, in a high-altitude monastery in Ladakh, another kitchen hums to life where dough is shaped into thumbprint-sized noodles and dropped into a bubbling stew thick with root vegetables.Thousands of kilometres away, in a Gurdwara in Delhi, vast tavas sizzle as golden chapatis puff over open flames, ready to be served to anyone who walks through the doors, no questions asked.
Food has always been a universal language — a bridge between cultures, traditions, and beliefs. Food writer Jody Eddy has captured this essence in her book, Elysian Kitchens – Recipes Inspired by the Traditions and Tastes of the World’s Sacred Spaces.
From a Sufi kitchen in Morocco to a Benedictine abbey in France, each sacred space carries a unique culinary tradition, bound by the same principle — food as an offering, an expression of gratitude, and a way of bringing people together.
The book is a love letter to these culinary traditions. Each recipe reminds us that food, at its heart, is a shared language — one that speaks of warmth, generosity, and the quiet magic of a meal prepared with care.
Sixty-Second Sagas
We’ve all been there — bingeing a favourite show for days, only to be left heartbroken (and existentially lost) when the season finale hits, and the next instalment is a year away — if it even happens. Not for C-Drama (Chinese Drama) fans, though. While K-Dramas, like most series, often run for an hour per episode, China’s latest obsession flips the script. With episodes just 60 to 90 seconds long, these micro-dramas pack entire sagas into bite-sized bursts, often spanning 50+ episodes.
Packed with romance, revenge, and plot twists that could make even Shakespeare dizzy, these mini-dramas are fueling China’s booming short-form industry — where high-intensity storytelling plays out in the time it takes to reheat your tea. With short-form content dominating social media, these lightning-fast C-dramas are now making their way to the world.
While traditional C-dramas are known for their sprawling epics, the rise of short-form platforms like Douyin and Kuaishou has given birth to ultra-compact series designed for the scrolling generation. No slogging through slow episodes, no waiting years for a new season — just fast, addictive storytelling that keeps you coming back for more.
Why is this working? Attention spans are shrinking, and instant gratification is king. Why commit to a 12-hour binge when you can get your dramatic fix in mere minutes? Gone are the days of waiting years for a beloved show to return.
As these micro-stories cross borders, don’t be surprised if your next guilty pleasure fits neatly between two bus stops. The age of the 60-second episode is here — and it’s moving fast.
Maltese Marvels
Of all the beautiful islands that dot the Mediterranean Sea, Malta has to be among the most beautiful and enthralling ones. This island nation is known for its pretty beaches, natural harbours, and its beautiful architecture, which combines features of several different traditions. However, it is Malta’s early history that is the most fascinating and enigmatic.
The island has been inhabited since the sixth millennium BCE, which makes it among the earliest places of habitation in all of Europe. Interestingly, the first people to move there were not sailors or traders, but farmers. And after much of the island had been over-farmed, it was deserted for over a millennia, after which the first settlers to the island arrived. And the evidence for this prehistoric culture is something that will make your jaws drop.
The second wave of Malta’s settlers arrived from Sicily, and created some of the grandest megalithic temples known. The Ġgantija temple complex has the oldest free-standing building in the world, and was built in 3600 BCE. Subsequent temples, as well as a few much older ones, are dotted all over the island, and are a testament to the sustained occupation of the islands, which is very unusual for pre-Bronze Age Europe.
More than just the imposing size of the structures are the designs and the beautiful sculptures that have been found here. The temples have curved arches and differently sized rooms, and from above, they give the appearance of a human body, which corresponds with the art found here. In case you wish to get a dose of life in early Europe along with some amazing views, Malta may just be the place for you.
Oh, Man(dawa)
In the heart of Rajasthan, where the desert wind whispers through ochre streets, the town of Mandawa is quietly reclaiming its past. Once a thriving stop on a historic trade route, its grand havelis — mansions adorned with intricate frescoes — had fallen into neglect. But today, a revival is underway.
Local artists and restorers are uncovering centuries-old frescoes that depict tales of Rajput kings, Mughal artistry, and even colonial quirks — an Englishman with a telephone, a steam train rendered in striking pinks and reds. Some havelis, like the Gulab Rai Ladia Haveli, are being meticulously transformed into boutique hotels, offering a window into Shekhawati’s storied past. Others remain untouched, their weathered murals whispering echoes of a once-glorious era.
Mandawa’s slow-blooming renaissance is drawing those who seek culture beyond Rajasthan’s well-trodden routes. With each brushstroke and restoration project, the town is preserving its legacy while inviting the world to rediscover it.
(Pine)apple A Day
Who would’ve thought pineapple leaves could shape the future of design? In the Philippines, what was once agricultural waste is now pinyapel — a sustainable material turning up in everything from wall panels to lighting fixtures. Pinyapel, a material crafted from repurposed pineapple fibres, is redefining eco-conscious interiors with its natural texture and refined aesthetic.
The journey of pinyapel begins with locally-sourced pineapple leaves, carefully dried, pulped, and pressed into durable sheets. The result is a unique, textured material that seamlessly blends sustainability with style. Its neutral tones and natural fibres allow it to complement a wide range of designs, from minimalist to rustic.
Beyond wall panels and furniture, the material is also making its way into everyday living spaces in creative ways. It is used in lighting design, where its organic texture diffuses light beautifully, creating a warm, natural ambiance. On the other hand, some designers are experimenting with it in cabinetry and decorative partitions, offering a sustainable alternative to wood. In commercial spaces, it is finding its place in eco-friendly packaging, artisanal paper products, and even biodegradable coffee cups, reinforcing its practicality beyond interiors.
As artisans and designers continue to explore its versatility, pinyapel is becoming a statement. By transforming agricultural byproducts into purposeful design, it showcases the potential of natural resources, turning something once overlooked into something truly extraordinary.
Sweet Everythings
In the high-altitude kitchens of Tibet, a sweet aroma fills the air as families prepare for Losar, the Tibetan New Year. At the heart of the celebration is khapse, a deep-fried dessert pastry that is a symbol of peace, prosperity, and the passing of time.
Traditionally shaped into intricate patterns, from simple twists to elaborate knots, khapse carries deep cultural significance. The crisp golden pastries are often arranged as offerings on altars, shared with loved ones, and even gifted to neighbours as a gesture of goodwill. For many Tibetans, making khapse is a communal affair, bringing generations together in the kitchen, reinforcing the bonds of family and tradition.
But khapse is not just confined to Tibetan homes. Across Himalayan communities, from Ladakh to Bhutan, the pastry has taken on regional variations, yet its essence remains unchanged — celebrating renewal and togetherness. Even among Tibetans elsewhere, the ritual of making khapse preserves a link to home, a reminder that food is as much about memory as it is about celebration.
Khapse stands as a quiet and powerful tradition, offering a taste of history with every crunch.
Gaming Beyond Generations
Video games have long been seen as the domain of the young, but a quiet revolution is underway — one that is reshaping how we think about play. From retirees learning to code to seniors finding unexpected joy in mobile games, older gamers are stepping into the spotlight.
Take Masako Wakamiya, an 81-year-old Japanese programmer who created a video game specifically for seniors. Her journey from coding newbie to game producer demonstrates the growing need for digital experiences tailored to older players. Gaming has benefits beyond amusement; it can improve cognitive abilities, lessen loneliness, and foster relationships between generations.
Big tech is also paying attention. Companies like Tencent are investing in accessibility, while mainstream game studios are recognising the spending power of older players. As a result, gaming is quietly weaving itself into family traditions, with video games replacing board games as a new way for generations to bond.
The stereotype of the teenage gamer is fading, making room for a broader, more inclusive gaming culture. Whether it’s word puzzles on a smartphone or RPGs on a console, one thing is clear: gaming is for everyone.
From Ragas to the Grammys
Every year, the Grammys set the stage for musical legends, viral moments, and cultural conversations. This year was no different. Amid mainstream wins and historic moments, a quieter, yet equally significant, victory was unfolding. Indian and Indian-origin artists carved out a space in the global music scene, not just as nominees but as winners too, bringing a powerful presence to the awards.
Indian-American vocalist Chandrika Tandon took home the Grammy for Best New Age, Ambient, or Chant Album with Triveni, a hypnotic blend of ancient mantras, flute, and cello. Tracks like Pathway to Light, Journey Within, and Aether’s Serenade create a meditative pull, each adding to the album’s immersive soundscape. Tandon shared the honour with South African flautist Wouter Kellerman and Japanese cellist Eru Matsumoto, cementing Triveni as a testament to cross-cultural collaboration. In a category featuring strong contenders like Ricky Kej, Anoushka Shankar, and Radhika Vekaria, her win underscored the deep global resonance of Indian spiritual and classical influences.
Indian artists have long been part of Grammy history, from Ravi Shankar to AR Rahman, but their growing presence in recent years signals a shift. No longer confined to niche recognition, Indian music is now shaping global soundscapes and earning its place in the mainstream. Bollywood and indie Indian music have commanded massive domestic followings for years, but moments like these push their music further onto the world stage, breaking barriers and cementing their influence in global playlists.
Chasing Adrenaline
Adventure travel is about stepping outside the familiar, embracing the unknown, and finding exhilaration in nature’s raw beauty. And there’s no better place to do that than Interlaken, the adventure capital of Europe.
Tucked between two shimmering lakes and framed by the snow-dusted peaks of Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau, this Swiss town is a living, breathing playground for thrill-seekers. Here, gravity is a suggestion — paragliders ride the thermals over emerald valleys, skydivers launch from dizzying heights with the Alps stretching endlessly below, and canyoners hurl themselves into roaring waterfalls, surrendering to the raw power of nature.
Here, adventure takes many forms. Paragliders soar over lush valleys, skydivers descend through crisp air with panoramic views of the Alps, and canyoners dive into rushing waterfalls. For those who prefer a slower pace, Interlaken offers hiking trails through alpine meadows, cycling paths that hug cliff edges, and tranquil kayaking in crystal-clear lakes.
Whether you’re free-falling from 14,000 feet or simply hiking through alpine meadows, Interlaken is a place that makes you feel alive in the purest sense — surrounded by nature, with endless possibilities ahead.
Stop and Paint
Imagine pausing in a sun-dappled piazza, the scent of espresso in the air, as you pull out a sketchbook instead of a camera. In an age of digital overload, where photos vanish into endless camera rolls, many travellers are turning to sketching as a way to slow down and truly immerse themselves. And so, the art of slow observation is being revived through travel sketching.
With travel sketching workshops popping up from Kyoto to Marrakech and pocket-sized paint kits that spring to life with a splash of water, many travellers are embracing a slower, more tactile way to capture their journeys. This analogue revival is about a break from screens, a deeper way to see the world, and a chance to engage with places beyond the lens of a camera.
A hand-drawn market scene in Marrakech recalls the rhythm of bargaining voices; a soft, pencil-shaded coastline in Santorini preserves the hush of waves against rock. In recent years, many travellers have consciously slowed down their vacations, abandoning crowded itineraries in order to fully immerse themselves in a single destination.
As digital memories fade into the endless scroll, a painted travelogue remains — a tangible keepsake, a story in strokes and colours, capturing not just what was seen, but what was truly experienced.
Here Comes The Bird
As winter bids adieu to India, the landscape transforms into a paradise for birdwatchers. This migratory season is as much about spotting rare species from around the world as it is a chance to explore some of the country’s most breathtaking destinations. From the misty wetlands of Bharatpur, to the vast expanse of Chilika Lake, birds arrive in droves, escaping the harsh northern winters.
One of the finest places to witness this seasonal spectacle is a former royal hunting ground in Rajasthan, Keoladeo National Park is now one of the finest places to witness this seasonal spectacle. Its marshes shelter a diverse array of birdlife, from painted storks to the rare Siberian crane. Further east, Odisha’s Chilika Lake, which isIndia’s largest coastal lagoon, comes alive with several migratory birds, including elegant flamingos, making it a prime spot for bird watching this time of year.
In the Himalayas, Pangot, near Nainital, offers sightings of rare species like the Himalayan rubythroat, while Assam’s Dibru-Saikhowa National Park is a refuge for both birds and birdwatchers alike. Even in bustling Gujarat, the salt pans of the Little Rann of Kutch come alive with greater flamingos and raptors.
For those willing to embrace early mornings and quiet patience, birding in India is a revelation — where many a rustling branch and distant call hints at a rare sighting.
Spo(r)t on
From football fans flying across continents for the FIFA World Cup to adventure seekers rafting in Rishikesh, sports tourism is thriving. Once a niche market, it has now become a major driver of global travel, with India witnessing a remarkable surge in interest.
Broadly speaking, sports tourism falls into two categories. Passive sports tourism is about travelling to witness events — be it matches, races, or tournaments — giving host cities an economic boost. Active sports tourism, on the other hand, is all about participation, from skiing and trekking to marathon running. In India, Manali, Ladakh, and Goa have become popular choices for such experiences.
The industry is driven by the lure of experiencing live sporting moments, as well as the growing trend of combining travel with fitness. The Tour de France, for example, attracts both spectators and cyclists keen to ride the same routes as professionals. Meanwhile, Formula 1 races and cricket tours are drawing younger, more diverse travellers.
As major tournaments expand and new destinations invest in hosting, the future of sports tourism looks bright—reinforcing that, for both fans and athletes, the world is an open arena.
Puerto Paradise
Puerto Rico is known as the 'Island of Enchantment', and it certainly lives up to the name with experiences that extend beyond its lively cities and sun-kissed beaches. There is a wilder side to it beneath its picture-perfect exterior, where culture and nature unexpectedly converge.
The country is best experienced through its untamed, immersive adventures. Picture yourself drifting down the Tanamá River, where limestone cliffs give way to shadowy caves, or kayak past Monkey Island, home to a colony of rhesus macaques. Or, you could soak in the mineral-rich Coamo Thermal Baths, said to be the island’s fountain of youth. As night falls, maybe you can go for a paddle through one of Puerto Rico’s famous bioluminescent bays — Mosquito Bay, Laguna Grande, or La Parguera — where microscopic organisms light up the water in an otherworldly glow.
In the misty highlands of Cordillera Central, coffee farms offer a taste of Puerto Rico’s rich agricultural heritage, while the legendary ‘Pork Highway’ in Guavate invites you to savour slow-roasted lechón, a feast best enjoyed among lively crowds.
From glowing waters to rainforest trails, Puerto Rico is an immersion into a land where history, nature, and tradition blend seamlessly.
Step Up
Morning mist clings to the slopes of Haraz in Yemen as the first light catches the stone terraces, stacked like ancient stairways into the clouds. In the crisp mountain air, the scent of drying coffee cherries drifts from village rooftops — a reminder of the land’s deep connection to the world’s favourite brew. Built over three millennia ago, these terraces have shaped both Yemen’s landscape and its culture.
It was here, in the highlands, that coffee was first cultivated before making its way to Ottoman courts and European cafés. Even today, farmers tend the same stepped fields, growing wheat, qat, and the beans that fuel morning rituals across the world.
Beyond their agricultural legacy, these terraces hold a sense of timelessness. Stone villages perch on cliff edges, their houses blending seamlessly with the mountains. Life moves at an unhurried pace — farmers navigating narrow paths, coffee cherries drying in the sun, history woven into the land.
Yemen’s terraces have stood the test of time, a quiet wonder where culture and landscape are one.
Japan’s Bullet Trains
The Shinkansen, Japan’s iconic bullet train, changed the country’s transportation landscape when it launched in 1964. Initially designed to shorten travel time between Tokyo and Osaka, it became an emblem of speed, efficiency, and technological progress. The high-speed train not only revolutionised travel, but also reshaped urban life in Japan, fostering economic growth and tourism along its routes.
The name ‘bullet train’ comes from its sleek, pointed design, reminiscent of a bullet, and reflects its speed. What makes the Shinkansen truly special is its punctuality and comfort. Over the years, the network expanded, with more cities connected, and newer trains cutting travel time even further.
The train stands as a symbol of Japan’s innovation, inspiring similar systems worldwide. Today, the Shinkansen continues to lead the way, blending modern technology with cultural significance. As new lines open, the bullet train remains central to Japan’s future of mobility, setting a global standard for high-speed rail travel. Its continued success shows how transportation can not only meet the demands of today but also shape the future.
Pet Seva
The travel industry is officially going to the dogs — and cats, and occasionally even hedgehogs. With pets increasingly seen as family, leaving them behind is no longer an option. From Gen Z adventurers to digital nomads, the demand for pet-inclusive travel is reshaping hospitality.
While airlines provide specific in-flight benefits for animal guests, hotels are now launching pet-friendly offerings including gourmet meals and customised amenities. For example, New York's Plaza Hotel pampers canines with the Pampered Pup Package, which includes Evian water bowls and bespoke robes. In South Korea, pet travel on Korean Air aircraft has more than doubled in just four years, indicating the growing popularity of pet-friendly travel experiences.
Challenges remain, such as weight restrictions and policies limiting pets left alone in rooms, but industry leaders are adapting quickly. Many are finding creative ways to cater to this growing demand without compromising other travellers’ experiences.
With remote work and social media amplifying this trend, pets are becoming an integral part of travel experiences. As more travellers seek to share their adventures with their furry companions, the hospitality industry continues to evolve, ensuring no one gets left behind — not even the four-legged ones.
A Mexican Road Trip
If road trips are on your mind, Mexico should be your next destination. This is set to be the year of Mexican road trips, thanks to new infrastructure opening up previously hard-to-reach destinations.
The newly completed highway between Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta cuts travel time from five hours to just two and a half, letting you explore charming towns like Tequila and Sayulita. The Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido route has also been streamlined, now taking only three hours, revealing lush valleys and pristine beaches along the way.
Additionally, Tulum’s new airport unlocks the Yucatán, making it easier to visit remote gems like Laguna de Bacalar and the Mayan ruins. These improvements make going to Mexico’s vibrant culture, historic towns, and natural beauty easier than ever.
As Mexico opens up these scenic routes, now is the perfect time to hit the road and experience the country in a new light. Whether you're chasing beaches, history, or adventure, the road ahead is waiting.
Dune Escape
If Sardinia conjures images of sparkling beaches and luxury resorts, the island’s southwestern corner will surprise you. Here, Europe’s tallest sand dunes create an awe-inspiring, desert-like expanse that stretches toward the Mediterranean. Towering golden peaks ripple across the landscape, blending seamlessly with the sea and offering a raw, untouched beauty that feels worlds away from Sardinia’s bustling coastlines.
Exploring these dunes is like stepping into another realm. Trek through shifting sands, discover ancient caves hidden within the terrain, and watch as the sunlight transforms the dunes into a fiery golden sea at sunset.
For those craving a deeper connection to this unique environment, Le Dune Piscinas offers a rare opportunity to stay within the dunes themselves. This eco-friendly resort blends harmoniously with its surroundings, providing a quiet retreat far from the usual tourist hubs. But the dunes remain the star — a striking fusion of nature’s raw power and serene beauty, inviting travelers to pause and marvel at a side of Sardinia few ever experience.
Train Gain in Australia
Australia’s Indian Pacific train, an iconic transcontinental route, has expanded its journey to give you an even more immersive experience of the country’s diverse landscapes and cultures. Running from Sydney to Perth, the extended route not only covers more miles but also includes additional cultural stops, letting you have a deeper exploration of Australia’s vast beauty and history.
You can discover a new side of Australia as the journey takes you through unique towns brimming with history and character. In Broken Hill, once a bustling mining town, you can find vibrant outback art galleries that capture the spirit of the region. In contrast, Cook, a small town in the heart of the country’s interior, offers a hauntingly rare glimpse into remote Australian life. Along the way, you get to immerse yourself in the past through indigenous cultural centres, local storytellers, and fascinating museums.
As the train glides through New South Wales’ lush rainforests and the stark, remote expanse of the Nullarbor Plain, the scenery transforms before your eyes. From verdant landscapes to arid deserts and dramatic cliffs, the ever-changing vistas immerse you in Australia’s untamed beauty.
Onboard, you can indulge in gourmet dining and first-class service while enjoying panoramic views. Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or new to the Indian Pacific, this extended journey has a fresh perspective on Australia’s landscapes and rich cultural fabric.
The Matcha Capital of Japan
Just a half-hour journey from Kyoto lies Uji, a serene city steeped in the aroma of matcha. Renowned as Japan’s fine powder tea capital, Uji combines centuries-old tea heritage with captivating landmarks and natural beauty.
As one of the first regions in Japan to cultivate green tea, Uji’s dedication to matcha is unparalleled. At Byodoin Omotesando, you’ll find a delightful introduction to matcha, with everything from creamy parfaits to artisanal souvenirs.
For a hands-on experience, visit Incense Kitchen, a sustainable workshop crafting matcha-infused incense, or Chazuna, where you can explore the traditions of tea-making through immersive workshops. Don’t miss Uji’s signature matcha soba noodles or a velvety matcha latte.
The region’s treasures extend beyond tea. The UNESCO-listed Byodoin Temple, immortalised on the Japanese 10-yen coin, is a must-see, while Uji Shrine charms visitors with its whimsical rabbit-themed talismans. Along the Uji River, cherry blossoms in spring and fiery autumn foliage create a feast for the senses.
Whether you’re a tea enthusiast or simply seeking Japan’s quieter side, Uji offers an escape as flavourful as it is unforgettable.
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