Much in North Asia feels instantly recognisable: the temples of Japan, the cities of South Korea, the monuments of China.
But the richest journeys often begin when you look beyond the familiar. These suggestions are shaped by the people we trust on the ground, whose local knowledge helps us open doors, avoid the obvious and craft holidays with greater depth, care and connection.
Slow Travel on the Great Steppe
Steppes was born on the Great Steppe in 1989 and our ties run deep. Mongolia is the perfect antidote to racing across the world. Here, space is luxury: open steppe, fresh air and places you won’t find on Google Maps. Travel slowly, guided by local knowledge, and gain a thoughtful understanding of nomadic life, from its pastoral beauty to its harsher realities.
Postcard home: People of the Steppes
The Roads Through Rural Japan
Explore Shikoku Island, one of Japan‘s most rewarding yet less-visited islands. One of the few places where we recommend self-driving in the country, it offers freedom to pause in villages, hike and raft through rural scenery and stay in a small onsen hotel high above the valley. Travel by scenic monorail and discover a quieter side of Japan shaped by nature, not crowds.
Holiday idea: Holiday to Japan including Tokyo, Kyoto and Shikoku
Jeju’s Women of the Sea
Meet the haenyeo, South Korea’s remarkable sea women whose free-diving traditions date back around 1,500 years. Watch as they surface with their catch, marked by bright orange buoys, before hauling heavy nets back to shore. Within minutes, wetsuits are replaced with aprons as they serve the day’s harvest in the restaurant, trading laughter, teasing and stories over the menu.
Destination: South Korea
Say Hi-Ya! to a Different Japan
When most people think of Japan, the icons come quickly: cherry blossom in spring, a tea ceremony in Kyoto, an evening with geisha. These moments have earned their place, but we want you to look further, towards the people, places and conversations that reveal another side of Japan. Here are our suggestions, from mountain villages to family-run workshops and local festivals, many miss.
Blog: The Japan Most Travellers Miss
China: Future Frontiers
Travel through modern China on an 11-day group journey, exploring the ideas, technologies and traditions shaping its future. From AI and autonomous mobility to drone technology and immersive digital worlds, step inside a country moving at a remarkable pace. Hosted by Managing Director Justin Wateridge, this journey offers a thoughtful look at one of the world’s most dynamic nations.
Group tour: China’s Future Frontiers
Our specialists, Paul and Clare, know North Asia first-hand. They design adventures collaboratively with trusted local partners, tailored to you and the way you like to travel.
Get in touch with them below and let us turn this inspiration into your next great escape.