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A Guide to Climbing Mount Fuji
Mount Fuji is one of the world’s most famous mountains and one deeply important to Japanese people as it is one of their 3 holy mountains. Each year, thousands flock to Japan hoping to catch a glimpse of Fuji on the train passing by, while the brave ones attempt to climb it. At 12,389 feet (3,776.24 meters), Mount Fuji ranks…
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How Studying Abroad in Japan Changed My Life
Being bi-racial, African-American and Japanese, I always had a fascination with Japan. Growing up in the U.S, I often wondered what living in Japan long-term would be like. I had visited Japan several times, but often for short periods of time. As a child, I knew one day that I would get the opportunity to stay longer and that I…
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Backpacking Through Bukhara and Samarkand
No trip to Uzbekistan is complete without a visit to the ancient Silk Road cities of Bukhara and Samarkand. Compared to the rest of Central Asia, which is rich in backpacking trails and rugged mountains, Uzbekistan has an abundance of architecture and Bukhara and Samarkand are arguably the best two cities to witness this. Although Bukhara and Samarkand are located just…
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A Backpacker’s Guide to Uzbekistan
Uzbekistan is a fantastic country to travel to and getting around is easier than you think. Despite many people’s fear of countries ending in “Stan”, Uzbekistan is far from a dangerous place and you’ll quickly realize that upon arrival. This historically rich nation, which sits along the ancient Silk Road, is a hidden gem and one country that deserves a lot…
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Traveling to Xinjiang: China’s Wild West
Xinjiang is one of China’s most unique regions and one truly worth exploring if you have time. Xinjiang is far from what most would imagine China to be. Uyghurs, the majority group living in Xinjiang, are culturally distinct from most Han Chinese. Aside from their physical features, they mostly practice Islam, speak Uyghur, and have their own cultural traditions. Although…
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Backpacking in Sudan
When I tell my friends I went backpacking in Sudan, the response I usually get is, “Sudan? Why?” Like most people, I had limited knowledge of Sudan; my image was entirely shaped by the mass media. When I envisioned Sudan, I thought about rebels on the back of pick up trucks riding with long rifles, and hungry children roaming the…
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Black Barbershop in Shanghai
If you’re of African heritage living in Shanghai or thinking about moving to Shanghai, it is likely you’re looking for a barbershop that can cut black hair to keep you fresh from week to week. Cultura is the place you’re looking for. Cultura is located at No. 263, Lane 99 Zhongtan Lu or 中潭路99弄263号, 近远景路 You can walk here…
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Day Trips From Tokyo
Many travelers visiting Japan will fly into Tokyo and spend a few days here before heading off to their next destination. For those with limited time in Japan that can’t afford to go far or just have a few extra days to spare, here are four places you can visit if you’re looking for day trips from Tokyo. 1) Kamakura:…
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Dali: One of the Most Scenic Places in China
Yunnan is often regarded by Chinese locals as the most beautiful province, and after visiting, I couldn’t agree more. I visited Dali, one of the most scenic places in China and was absolutely stunned by its natural beauty. If you’re in China, Dali is one place you should visit. How to get to Dali Assuming you’re not already in Yunnan…
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How to go to Graduate School in Japan
In 2009, the Japanese government started a program to attract foreign students, which became known as the “Global 30”, now the “Top Global University Program.” The Japanese government selected the most elite schools and began offering English-only undergraduate and master’s programs. Since 2009, graduate school in Japan for international students has become more popular than ever. The beauty of this…