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  • Illuminated model of the Temple of Heaven in Tiananmen Square.
    jla01245.jpg
  • Neputa Mura  or Neputa Village is a museum devoted to the Neputa Matsuri, Hirosaki’s main event and also introduces the city's other cultural specialties.  The Neputa Matsuri takes place annually from August 1 to 7 around the same time when Neputa and Nebuta festivals are held all over Aomori Prefecture. It features floats with large painted screens that depict beautiful women, mythological warriors and other themes, and are illuminated from within when paraded through the streets. A few of these floats are on display here.  Although the main focus of the Neputa Mura is on the Neputa Festival,Hirosaki's other specialties on display devoted to shamisen, and popular local handicrafts. There is also a Japanese garden and a teahouse from the 19th century.
    neputa-7.jpg
  • Neputa Mura  or Neputa Village is a museum devoted to the Neputa Matsuri, Hirosaki’s main event and also introduces the city's other cultural specialties.  The Neputa Matsuri takes place annually from August 1 to 7 around the same time when Neputa and Nebuta festivals are held all over Aomori Prefecture. It features floats with large painted screens that depict beautiful women, mythological warriors and other themes, and are illuminated from within when paraded through the streets. A few of these floats are on display here.  Although the main focus of the Neputa Mura is on the Neputa Festival,Hirosaki's other specialties on display devoted to shamisen, and popular local handicrafts. There is also a Japanese garden and a teahouse from the 19th century.
    neputa-4.jpg
  • Neputa Mura  or Neputa Village is a museum devoted to the Neputa Matsuri, Hirosaki’s main event and also introduces the city's other cultural specialties.  The Neputa Matsuri takes place annually from August 1 to 7 around the same time when Neputa and Nebuta festivals are held all over Aomori Prefecture. It features floats with large painted screens that depict beautiful women, mythological warriors and other themes, and are illuminated from within when paraded through the streets. A few of these floats are on display here.  Although the main focus of the Neputa Mura is on the Neputa Festival,Hirosaki's other specialties on display devoted to shamisen, and popular local handicrafts. There is also a Japanese garden and a teahouse from the 19th century.
    neputa-9.jpg
  • Neputa Mura  or Neputa Village is a museum devoted to the Neputa Matsuri, Hirosaki’s main event and also introduces the city's other cultural specialties.  The Neputa Matsuri takes place annually from August 1 to 7 around the same time when Neputa and Nebuta festivals are held all over Aomori Prefecture. It features floats with large painted screens that depict beautiful women, mythological warriors and other themes, and are illuminated from within when paraded through the streets. A few of these floats are on display here.  Although the main focus of the Neputa Mura is on the Neputa Festival,Hirosaki's other specialties on display devoted to shamisen, and popular local handicrafts. There is also a Japanese garden and a teahouse from the 19th century.
    neputa-8.jpg
  • Neputa Mura  or Neputa Village is a museum devoted to the Neputa Matsuri, Hirosaki’s main event and also introduces the city's other cultural specialties.  The Neputa Matsuri takes place annually from August 1 to 7 around the same time when Neputa and Nebuta festivals are held all over Aomori Prefecture. It features floats with large painted screens that depict beautiful women, mythological warriors and other themes, and are illuminated from within when paraded through the streets. A few of these floats are on display here.  Although the main focus of the Neputa Mura is on the Neputa Festival,Hirosaki's other specialties on display devoted to shamisen, and popular local handicrafts. There is also a Japanese garden and a teahouse from the 19th century.
    neputa-3.jpg
  • Neputa Mura  or Neputa Village is a museum devoted to the Neputa Matsuri, Hirosaki’s main event and also introduces the city's other cultural specialties.  The Neputa Matsuri takes place annually from August 1 to 7 around the same time when Neputa and Nebuta festivals are held all over Aomori Prefecture. It features floats with large painted screens that depict beautiful women, mythological warriors and other themes, and are illuminated from within when paraded through the streets. A few of these floats are on display here.  Although the main focus of the Neputa Mura is on the Neputa Festival,Hirosaki's other specialties on display devoted to shamisen, and popular local handicrafts. There is also a Japanese garden and a teahouse from the 19th century.
    neputa-2.jpg
  • Neputa Mura  or Neputa Village is a museum devoted to the Neputa Matsuri, Hirosaki’s main event and also introduces the city's other cultural specialties.  The Neputa Matsuri takes place annually from August 1 to 7 around the same time when Neputa and Nebuta festivals are held all over Aomori Prefecture. It features floats with large painted screens that depict beautiful women, mythological warriors and other themes, and are illuminated from within when paraded through the streets. A few of these floats are on display here.  Although the main focus of the Neputa Mura is on the Neputa Festival,Hirosaki's other specialties on display devoted to shamisen, and popular local handicrafts. There is also a Japanese garden and a teahouse from the 19th century.
    neputa-1.jpg
  • Neputa Mura  or Neputa Village is a museum devoted to the Neputa Matsuri, Hirosaki’s main event and also introduces the city's other cultural specialties.  The Neputa Matsuri takes place annually from August 1 to 7 around the same time when Neputa and Nebuta festivals are held all over Aomori Prefecture. It features floats with large painted screens that depict beautiful women, mythological warriors and other themes, and are illuminated from within when paraded through the streets. A few of these floats are on display here.  Although the main focus of the Neputa Mura is on the Neputa Festival,Hirosaki's other specialties on display devoted to shamisen, and popular local handicrafts. There is also a Japanese garden and a teahouse from the 19th century.
    neputa-10.jpg
  • Neputa Mura  or Neputa Village is a museum devoted to the Neputa Matsuri, Hirosaki’s main event and also introduces the city's other cultural specialties.  The Neputa Matsuri takes place annually from August 1 to 7 around the same time when Neputa and Nebuta festivals are held all over Aomori Prefecture. It features floats with large painted screens that depict beautiful women, mythological warriors and other themes, and are illuminated from within when paraded through the streets. A few of these floats are on display here.  Although the main focus of the Neputa Mura is on the Neputa Festival,Hirosaki's other specialties on display devoted to shamisen, and popular local handicrafts. There is also a Japanese garden and a teahouse from the 19th century.
    neputa-6.jpg
  • Neputa Mura  or Neputa Village is a museum devoted to the Neputa Matsuri, Hirosaki’s main event and also introduces the city's other cultural specialties.  The Neputa Matsuri takes place annually from August 1 to 7 around the same time when Neputa and Nebuta festivals are held all over Aomori Prefecture. It features floats with large painted screens that depict beautiful women, mythological warriors and other themes, and are illuminated from within when paraded through the streets. A few of these floats are on display here.  Although the main focus of the Neputa Mura is on the Neputa Festival,Hirosaki's other specialties on display devoted to shamisen, and popular local handicrafts. There is also a Japanese garden and a teahouse from the 19th century.
    neputa-5.jpg
  • Illuminated Indian Street Vendors, Panaji Goa
    indian-vendors-1.jpg
  • Azuma Bridge at Asakusa, crossing over the Sumida River.  Tokyo's 12 Sumida River bridges are now illuminated in hopes of making the city more attractive ahead of the city's bid for the 2016 Olympics.
    azuma-bridge-02.jpg
  • Ho Chi Minh City Hall was built in 1902-1908 in a French colonial style for the then city of Saigon and called Hotel de Ville de Saigon -  It was renamed after 1975 as Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee Hall. The building is Illuminated at night, though it is not opened to the public.  Saigon Town Hall was completed in 1908. Its French builders imitated town halls in Europe.  Once the Communist government took over in 1975 the building took on its present name.  Its French-Colonial architecture and cream and yellow coloring, not to mention its iconic statue of Ho Chi Minh himself, make it a symbol of Saigon..
    saigon-city-hall-8.jpg
  • Japanese Restaurant, Lanterns with illuminated lanterns known as "chochin" in the backstreets of Asakusa or Old Tokyo.
    japanese-restaurant-2.jpg
  • Azuma Bridge at Asakusa, crossing over the Sumida River.  Tokyo's 12 Sumida River bridges are now illuminated in hopes of making the city more attractive ahead of the city's bid for the 2016 Olympics.
    azuma-bridge-2.jpg
  • Sapporo TV Tower located on the grounds of Odori Park was built in 1957.  The TV Tower was designed by Tachu Naito a Japanese architect who is famous for his design of Tokyo Tower. At night it is illuminated in different colors depending on the seasons.
    sapporo-TV-tower-01.jpg
  • Ueno Park Illuminations
    ueno-park-illuminations-2.jpg
  • Ueno Park Illuminations - fanciful lights in Ueno Park lit up at night and resembling Godzilla, penguins, bears and whatever else the imagination can dredge up.
    ueno-park-illuminations.jpg
  • Wat Mahathat Illuminations - Wat Mahathat or the Monastery of the Great Relic was one of the most important monasteries of the Ayutthaya kingdom, not only because it was the religious centre and enshrined relics of the Buddha, but also for its proximity to the Grand Palace. It was a royal monastery till the end of the Ayutthaya period.
    mahathat-ayutthaya-2.jpg
  • Wat Mahathat Illuminations - Wat Mahathat or the Monastery of the Great Relic was one of the most important monasteries of the Ayutthaya kingdom, not only because it was the religious centre and enshrined relics of the Buddha, but also for its proximity to the Grand Palace. It was a royal monastery till the end of the Ayutthaya period.
    mahathat-ayutthaya-4.jpg
  • Wat Mahathat Illuminations - Wat Mahathat or the Monastery of the Great Relic was one of the most important monasteries of the Ayutthaya kingdom, not only because it was the religious centre and enshrined relics of the Buddha, but also for its proximity to the Grand Palace. It was a royal monastery till the end of the Ayutthaya period.
    mahathat-ayutthaya-9.jpg
  • Mannen Bashi Bridge replaced an ancient wooden arched structure, made famous in a Hokusai woodblock painting, "Under Mannen Bridge at Fukagawa" with its view of Mt Fuji.  The more modern steel structure appears to be neon at night, though it is only reflection onto the metal from the illuminations.  The view of Mt Fuji cannot be seen these days because of tall buildings on the opposite side of the Sumida River.
    Mannen-Bashi-Bridge-2.jpg
  • The Fountain of Wealth is listed by the Guinness Book of Records as the largest fountain in the world. It is located in one of Singapore's largest shopping malls, Suntec City.  During the daytime the fountain is turned off and visitors are invited to walk around a mini fountain at the center of the fountain base for good luck. At night, the fountain is the setting for light shows between 8pm to 9pm daily.
    fountain-wealth-1.jpg
  • The Fountain of Wealth is listed by the Guinness Book of Records as the largest fountain in the world. It is located in one of Singapore's largest shopping malls, Suntec City.  During the daytime the fountain is turned off and visitors are invited to walk around a mini fountain at the center of the fountain base for good luck. At night, the fountain is the setting for light shows between 8pm to 9pm daily.
    fountain-wealth-2.jpg
  • Wat Arun or the Temple of Dawn is a Buddhist temple on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok.  Its name comes from the Indian god Aruna.  Wat Arun is one of the best known of Bangkok landmarks and often used as the icon for the city.  Although the temple has existed since at least the seventeenth century, its distinctive prang spires were built in the early nineteenth century during the reign of Rama II.  The main feature of Wat Arun is its central Khmer-style prang towers which are encrusted with colorful porcelain and ceramics.
    temple-of-dawn-2.jpg
  • Siam Discovery is a part of Siam Center shopping mall.  The collection of sophisticated shops here caters to young trendies and offers a good selection of designer fashion outlets.  Its atrium, capped with a huge glass dome, enhances the airy, luxurious look.  On the sixth floor is the Bangkok branch of Madame Tussaud's Wax Museum, and Sky Dininig, a stylish food hall with international food choices as well as Thai.
    siam-discovery-4.jpg
  • Siam Center was built in 1973 and was Bangkok's first shopping mall. It has undergone renovation several times. The last renovation gave the  mall a new food court.  Adjacent<br />
Siam Discovery Center was built in 1997 and positioned to serve a more mature market than Siam Center.
    siam-center-1.jpg
  • Tokyo Station opened in 1914. During this early era, the station only had gates on the Marunouchi side. Much of the station was destroyed in 1945 during WWII though the station was quickly rebuilt within the year with simple angular roofs. The Marunouchi part of the station was restored to pre-war condition completed in October 2012 . The bombing of Tokyo during World War II caused extensive damage to the Tokyo Station building, shattering the domes which originally adorned the rooftops of the building. Angular rooftops  replaced the domes in the 1946 restoration, but remained until 2012. The surrounding area has been converted into a plaza extending toward the Imperial Palace, reviving the area to its former spacious and lively character.
    tokyo-station-6.jpg
  • Tokyo Station opened in 1914. During this early era, the station only had gates on the Marunouchi side. Much of the station was destroyed in 1945 during WWII though the station was quickly rebuilt within the year with simple angular roofs. The Marunouchi part of the station was restored to pre-war condition completed in October 2012 . The bombing of Tokyo during World War II caused extensive damage to the Tokyo Station building, shattering the domes which originally adorned the rooftops of the building. Angular rooftops  replaced the domes in the 1946 restoration, but remained until 2012. The surrounding area has been converted into a plaza extending toward the Imperial Palace, reviving the area to its former spacious and lively character.
    tokyo-station-5.jpg
  • Tokyo Station opened in 1914. During this early era, the station only had gates on the Marunouchi side. Much of the station was destroyed in 1945 during WWII though the station was quickly rebuilt within the year with simple angular roofs. The Marunouchi part of the station was restored to pre-war condition completed in October 2012 . The bombing of Tokyo during World War II caused extensive damage to the Tokyo Station building, shattering the domes which originally adorned the rooftops of the building. Angular rooftops  replaced the domes in the 1946 restoration, but remained until 2012. The surrounding area has been converted into a plaza extending toward the Imperial Palace, reviving the area to its former spacious and lively character.
    tokyo-station-7.jpg
  • Tokyo Tower is a communications and observation tower located in Shiba Park, Tokyo, with a remarkable likeness to the Eiffel Tower in Paris. At 332  metres (1000 ft), it is the tallest self supporting steel structure in the world and the tallest artificial structure in Japan.  Built in 1958, the tower's main sources of revenue are tourism and broadcast antenna leasing.
    tokyo-tower-04.jpg
  • Wat Pho also known as Wat Phra Chetuphon or The Temple of the Reclining Buddha, is a Buddhist temple in Phra Nakhon district, Bangkok,  located in the Rattanakosin Island, directly adjacent to the Grand Palace.  Its official full name is Wat Phra Chetuphon Vimolmangklararm Rajwaramahaviharn. The temple is also known as the birthplace of traditional Thai massage.
    wat-pho-2.jpg
  • Wat Pho also known as Wat Phra Chetuphon or The Temple of the Reclining Buddha, is a Buddhist temple in Phra Nakhon district, Bangkok,  located in the Rattanakosin Island, directly adjacent to the Grand Palace.  Its official full name is Wat Phra Chetuphon Vimolmangklararm Rajwaramahaviharn. The temple is also known as the birthplace of traditional Thai massage.
    wat-pho-1.jpg
  • Wat Arun or the Temple of Dawn is a Buddhist temple on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok.  Its name comes from the Indian god Aruna.  Wat Arun is one of the best known of Bangkok landmarks and often used as the icon for the city.  Although the temple has existed since at least the seventeenth century, its distinctive prang spires were built in the early nineteenth century during the reign of Rama II.  The main feature of Wat Arun is its central Khmer-style prang towers which are encrusted with colorful porcelain and ceramics.
    temple-of-dawn-8.jpg
  • Wat Arun or the Temple of Dawn is a Buddhist temple on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok.  Its name comes from the Indian god Aruna.  Wat Arun is one of the best known of Bangkok landmarks and often used as the icon for the city.  Although the temple has existed since at least the seventeenth century, its distinctive prang spires were built in the early nineteenth century during the reign of Rama II.  The main feature of Wat Arun is its central Khmer-style prang towers which are encrusted with colorful porcelain and ceramics.
    temple-of-dawn-1.jpg
  • Siam Discovery is a part of Siam Center shopping mall.  The collection of sophisticated shops here caters to young trendies and offers a good selection of designer fashion outlets.  Its atrium, capped with a huge glass dome, enhances the airy, luxurious look.  On the sixth floor is the Bangkok branch of Madame Tussaud's Wax Museum, and Sky Dininig, a stylish food hall with international food choices as well as Thai.
    siam-discovery-3.jpg
  • Siam Discovery is a part of Siam Center shopping mall.  The collection of sophisticated shops here caters to young trendies and offers a good selection of designer fashion outlets.  Its atrium, capped with a huge glass dome, enhances the airy, luxurious look.  On the sixth floor is the Bangkok branch of Madame Tussaud's Wax Museum, and Sky Dininig, a stylish food hall with international food choices as well as Thai.
    siam-discovery-2.jpg
  • Tokyo Station opened in 1914. During this early era, the station only had gates on the Marunouchi side. Much of the station was destroyed in 1945 during WWII though the station was quickly rebuilt within the year with simple angular roofs. The Marunouchi part of the station was restored to pre-war condition completed in October 2012 . The bombing of Tokyo during World War II caused extensive damage to the Tokyo Station building, shattering the domes which originally adorned the rooftops of the building. Angular rooftops  replaced the domes in the 1946 restoration, but remained until 2012. The surrounding area has been converted into a plaza extending toward the Imperial Palace, reviving the area to its former spacious and lively character.
    tokyo-station-4.jpg
  • Tokyo Station opened in 1914. During this early era, the station only had gates on the Marunouchi side. Much of the station was destroyed in 1945 during WWII though the station was quickly rebuilt within the year with simple angular roofs. The Marunouchi part of the station was restored to pre-war condition completed in October 2012 . The bombing of Tokyo during World War II caused extensive damage to the Tokyo Station building, shattering the domes which originally adorned the rooftops of the building. Angular rooftops  replaced the domes in the 1946 restoration, but remained until 2012. The surrounding area has been converted into a plaza extending toward the Imperial Palace, reviving the area to its former spacious and lively character.
    tokyo-station-3.jpg
  • Tokyo Tower is a communications and observation tower located in Shiba Park, Tokyo, with a remarkable likeness to the Eiffel Tower in Paris. At 332  metres (1000 ft), it is the tallest self supporting steel structure in the world and the tallest artificial structure in Japan.  Built in 1958, the tower's main sources of revenue are tourism and antenna leasing.
    tokyo-tower-03.jpg
  • Floating Restarant Boat "Wan Fah" on the Chao Phrya River.  In Bangkok, the Chao Phraya is a major transportation artery for a vast network of ferries and water taxis, also known as longtails. More than 15 boat lines operate on the river and canals of the city, including commuter ferry lines.
    wan-fah-1.jpg
  • The giant ferris wheel Asiatique Sky, also called "Asiatique Big Wheel" - the Dutch owned ferris wheel stands at over 60 meters tall and has a diameter of 50 meters. It has 41 gondolas and even one  VIP gondola.  Each gondola can hold a maxium of 8 people and a weight load of 600 kgs.  At its opening, there was a higher charge for foreigners to ride the ferris wheel, but after a big stink regarding dual pricing, the fare has equalized to 200 Baht for everyone, including foreigners. .
    bangkok-asiatique-17.jpg
  • During the urban planning of Sapporo, Sapporo's Odori Park was originally designated as the main street but it eventually became a park. Odori means "large street" in Japanese.  Throughout the year, many events and ceremonies such as the Sapporo Snow Festival are held in the park, as well as local landmarks such as Sapporo TV Tower and numerous fountains are within the park.
    sapporo-odori-park-1.jpg
  • Clarke Quay is a historical riverside quay in Singapore.  It was named after Sir Andrew Clarke, Singapore's second Governor and Governor of the Straits Settlements who played a key role in positioning Singapore as the main port for the Malay states. The Singapore River has been the centre of trade since modern Singapore was founded in 1819.
    ord-bridge-2.jpg
  • Clarke Quay is a historical riverside quay in Singapore.  It was named after Sir Andrew Clarke, Singapore's second Governor and Governor of the Straits Settlements who played a key role in positioning Singapore as the main port for the Malay states. The Singapore River has been the centre of trade since modern Singapore was founded in 1819.
    ord-bridge-1.jpg
  • The Mid-Autumn Festival, also known as the Moon Festival or Zhongqiu Festival is a popular harvest festival celebrated by Chinese dating back over 3,000 years to moon worship in China's Shang Dynasty. It was first called Zhongqiu Jie literally "Mid-Autumn Festival" in the Zhou Dynasty.  It is also sometimes referred to as the Lantern Festival or Mooncake Festival or simply Autumn Festival.
    singapore-festival-1.jpg
  • The Mid-Autumn Festival, also known as the Moon Festival or Zhongqiu Festival is a popular harvest festival celebrated by Chinese dating back over 3,000 years to moon worship in China's Shang Dynasty. It was first called Zhongqiu Jie literally "Mid-Autumn Festival" in the Zhou Dynasty.  It is also sometimes referred to as the Lantern Festival or Mooncake Festival or simply Autumn Festival.
    singapore-festival-2.jpg
  • The Mid-Autumn Festival, also known as the Moon Festival or Zhongqiu Festival is a popular harvest festival celebrated by Chinese dating back over 3,000 years to moon worship in China's Shang Dynasty. It was first called Zhongqiu Jie literally "Mid-Autumn Festival" in the Zhou Dynasty.  It is also sometimes referred to as the Lantern Festival or Mooncake Festival or simply Autumn Festival.
    singapore-festival-4.jpg
  • The Mid-Autumn Festival, also known as the Moon Festival or Zhongqiu Festival is a popular harvest festival celebrated by Chinese dating back over 3,000 years to moon worship in China's Shang Dynasty. It was first called Zhongqiu Jie literally "Mid-Autumn Festival" in the Zhou Dynasty.  It is also sometimes referred to as the Lantern Festival or Mooncake Festival or simply Autumn Festival.
    singapore-festival-5.jpg
  • The Mid-Autumn Festival, also known as the Moon Festival or Zhongqiu Festival is a popular harvest festival celebrated by Chinese dating back over 3,000 years to moon worship in China's Shang Dynasty. It was first called Zhongqiu Jie literally "Mid-Autumn Festival" in the Zhou Dynasty.  It is also sometimes referred to as the Lantern Festival or Mooncake Festival or simply Autumn Festival.
    singapore-festival-3.jpg
  • The construction of Daito was started by Kobo Daishi in 816 and was completed in 887 by Shinzen Daitoku. This massive structure represents the ideals of Shingon Buddhism and is known as the Fundamental Great Stupa. In Japan, this building was the first pagoda built in the tahoutou style.
    daito-koyasan-2.jpg
  • The construction of Daito was started by Kobo Daishi in 816 and was completed in 887 by Shinzen Daitoku. This massive structure represents the ideals of Shingon Buddhism and is known as the Fundamental Great Stupa. In Japan, this building was the first pagoda built in the tahoutou style.
    daito-koyasan-2.jpg
  • Fugetsuro is a reception hall and restaurant in Shizuoka that was once the residence of Lord Yoshinobu who lived in the mansion for 20 years. it later became a reception hall  for the next 120 years.  Lord Yoshinobu Tokugawa made a garden here - the present Fugetsuro Garden.  Tokugawa was called "Keiki-sama" during the last days of the Tokugawa government.  Fugetsuro has had three fires the first in 1892 only one year after opening for business, then 1940  and once again in 1945 during WWII. Every time it was rebuilt.  The pond and the garden have been preserved as they were in Tokugawa’s time although some lanterns show signs of fire damage.
    fugetsudo-1.jpg
  • Located in the center of the city with a history of more than 400 years, Golden Horse Gate and Jade Chicken Gate together are the symbol and pride of Kunming. According to the fairy tale - a golden horse flying out of the sun and a jade cock from the moon descended on Kunming. Whenever they went, lush grass and tall trees would blossom. The gates are considered to be lucky and auspicious to the residents of Kunming.
    Horse-Gate-kunming.jpg
  • 52.1  Kompon Daito 根本大塔  was begun by Kobo Daishi in 816 and was completed in 887.  This massive structure represents the ideals of Shingon Esoteric Buddhism and is known as the Fundamental Great Stupa. In Japan, this building was the first pagoda built in the tahoutou style.
    52.1.KII-KOYASAN-01.jpg
  • Five Storey Pagoda at Zentsuji in Kagawa Prefecture is number 75 and the largest of the 88 Sacred Temples of Shikoku - an ancient pilgrimage route that circles the island of Shikoku.  The temple was the home of Kobo Daishi (Kukai), the founder of the Koyasan temple complex in Wakayama and one of the most influential Buddhist priests in Japanese history. Kobo Daishi is reputed to have been born in the area and to have grown up in the temple.
    zentsuji-2.jpg
  • Symphony of Lights is a synchronised building exterior decorative light and laser multimedia display, featuring 44 buildings on the Hong Kong Island side of Victoria Harbour of Hong Kong accompanied by symphonic music.  The sound and light show is organized by the Hong Kong Tourism Board and displayed every night at 8pm, this unique show is an orchestration of music, decoration lights, laser light displays and occasional fireworks during special occasions such as Chinese New Year. The multimedia light and sound show lasts for about 15 minutes.
    symphony-of-light-hong-kong-03.jpg
  • Symphony of Lights is a synchronised building exterior decorative light and laser multimedia display, featuring 44 buildings on the Hong Kong Island side of Victoria Harbour of Hong Kong accompanied by symphonic music.  The sound and light show is organized by the Hong Kong Tourism Board and displayed every night at 8pm, this unique show is an orchestration of music, decoration lights, laser light displays and occasional fireworks during special occasions such as Chinese New Year. The multimedia light and sound show lasts for about 15 minutes.
    symphony-of-light-hong-kong-02.jpg
  • Yakatabune Restaurant Boats  - "yakatabune asobi" - meaning something like "roofed-boat fun" is a pleasure dining on a boat.  Usually the menu is a tempura dinner set. The boats were first used exclusively by aristocrats and samurai from the eighth century but nowadays anyone with the yen can enjoy. They have always been closely associated with Tokyo Bay as they still are today.
    yakatabune-11.jpg
  • Dotombori Crab Restaurant - Dotombori is a district of Osaka famous for its neon and mechanized signs, most famously for the sign of the candy manufacturer Glico.  The Glico Man sign shows a giant electronic display of a runner crossing a finish line.  Along the streets, to advertise their products and menus visitors are amazed at the moving giant crabs, puffed out blowfish, smoking dragons and other dramatic kitsch.  Dotombori is a district has always been known for its historic theaters, night life, shops and restaurants and in modern times its many neon and mechanized signs,
    dotombori-signs-28.jpg
  • Glico Man - Dotombori is a district of Osaka famous for its neon and mechanized signs, most famously for the sign of the candy manufacturer Glico.  The Glico Man sign shows a giant electronic display of a runner crossing a finish line.  Along the streets, to advertise their products and menus visitors are amazed at the moving giant crabs, puffed out blowfish, smoking dragons and other dramatic kitsch.  Dotombori is a district has always been known for its historic theaters, night life, shops and restaurants and in modern times its many neon and mechanized signs,
    dotombori-signs-23.jpg
  • Glico Man - Dotombori is a district of Osaka famous for its neon and mechanized signs, most famously for the sign of the candy manufacturer Glico.  The Glico Man sign shows a giant electronic display of a runner crossing a finish line.  Along the streets, to advertise their products and menus visitors are amazed at the moving giant crabs, puffed out blowfish, smoking dragons and other dramatic kitsch.  Dotombori is a district has always been known for its historic theaters, night life, shops and restaurants and in modern times its many neon and mechanized signs,
    dotombori-signs-22.jpg
  • Dotombori Signs - Dotombori is a district of Osaka famous for its neon and mechanized signs, most famously for the sign of the candy manufacturer Glico.  The Glico Man sign shows a giant electronic display of a runner crossing a finish line.  Along the streets, to advertise their products and menus visitors are amazed at the moving giant crabs, puffed out blowfish, smoking dragons and other dramatic kitsch.  Dotombori is a district has always been known for its historic theaters, night life, shops and restaurants and in modern times its many neon and mechanized signs,
    dotombori-signs-19.jpg
  • Dotombori Dragon - Dotombori is a district of Osaka famous for its neon and mechanized signs, most famously for the sign of the candy manufacturer Glico.  The Glico Man sign shows a giant electronic display of a runner crossing a finish line.  Along the streets, to advertise their products and menus visitors are amazed at the moving giant crabs, puffed out blowfish, smoking dragons and other dramatic kitsch.  Dotombori is a district has always been known for its historic theaters, night life, shops and restaurants and in modern times its many neon and mechanized signs,
    dotombori-signs-16.jpg
  • Dotombori Dragon - Dotombori is a district of Osaka famous for its neon and mechanized signs, most famously for the sign of the candy manufacturer Glico.  The Glico Man sign shows a giant electronic display of a runner crossing a finish line.  Along the streets, to advertise their products and menus visitors are amazed at the moving giant crabs, puffed out blowfish, smoking dragons and other dramatic kitsch.  Dotombori is a district has always been known for its historic theaters, night life, shops and restaurants and in modern times its many neon and mechanized signs,
    dotombori-signs-15.jpg
  • Dotombori Sushi Restaurant - Dotombori is a district of Osaka famous for its neon and mechanized signs, most famously for the sign of the candy manufacturer Glico.  The Glico Man sign shows a giant electronic display of a runner crossing a finish line.  Along the streets, to advertise their products and menus visitors are amazed at the moving giant crabs, puffed out blowfish, smoking dragons and other dramatic kitsch.  Dotombori is a district has always been known for its historic theaters, night life, shops and restaurants and in modern times its many neon and mechanized signs,
    dotombori-signs-10.jpg
  • Dotombori Blowfish Restaurant - Dotombori is a district of Osaka famous for its neon and mechanized signs, most famously for the sign of the candy manufacturer Glico.  The Glico Man sign shows a giant electronic display of a runner crossing a finish line.  Along the streets, to advertise their products and menus visitors are amazed at the moving giant crabs, puffed out blowfish, smoking dragons and other dramatic kitsch.  Dotombori is a district has always been known for its historic theaters, night life, shops and restaurants and in modern times its many neon and mechanized signs,
    dotombori-signs-11.jpg
  • Dotombori Sushi Restaurant - Dotombori is a district of Osaka famous for its neon and mechanized signs, most famously for the sign of the candy manufacturer Glico.  The Glico Man sign shows a giant electronic display of a runner crossing a finish line.  Along the streets, to advertise their products and menus visitors are amazed at the moving giant crabs, puffed out blowfish, smoking dragons and other dramatic kitsch.  Dotombori is a district has always been known for its historic theaters, night life, shops and restaurants and in modern times its many neon and mechanized signs,
    dotombori-signs-9.jpg
  • Dotombori River - Dotombori is a district of Osaka famous for its neon and mechanized signs, most famously for the sign of the candy manufacturer Glico.  The Glico Man sign shows a giant electronic display of a runner crossing a finish line.  Along the streets, to advertise their products and menus visitors are amazed at the moving giant crabs, puffed out blowfish, smoking dragons and other dramatic kitsch.  Dotombori is a district has always been known for its historic theaters, night life, shops and restaurants and in modern times its many neon and mechanized signs,
    dotombori-signs-6.jpg
  • Don Quijote Dotombori Branch - Dotombori is a district of Osaka famous for its neon and mechanized signs, most famously for the sign of the candy manufacturer Glico.  The Glico Man sign shows a giant electronic display of a runner crossing a finish line.  Along the streets, to advertise their products and menus visitors are amazed at the moving giant crabs, puffed out blowfish, smoking dragons and other dramatic kitsch.  Dotombori is a district has always been known for its historic theaters, night life, shops and restaurants and in modern times its many neon and mechanized signs,
    dotombori-signs-5.jpg
  • Don Quijote Dotombori Branch - Dotombori is a district of Osaka famous for its neon and mechanized signs, most famously for the sign of the candy manufacturer Glico.  The Glico Man sign shows a giant electronic display of a runner crossing a finish line.  Along the streets, to advertise their products and menus visitors are amazed at the moving giant crabs, puffed out blowfish, smoking dragons and other dramatic kitsch.  Dotombori is a district has always been known for its historic theaters, night life, shops and restaurants and in modern times its many neon and mechanized signs,
    dotombori-signs-3.jpg
  • Don Quijote Dotombori Branch - Dotombori is a district of Osaka famous for its neon and mechanized signs, most famously for the sign of the candy manufacturer Glico.  The Glico Man sign shows a giant electronic display of a runner crossing a finish line.  Along the streets, to advertise their products and menus visitors are amazed at the moving giant crabs, puffed out blowfish, smoking dragons and other dramatic kitsch.  Dotombori is a district has always been known for its historic theaters, night life, shops and restaurants and in modern times its many neon and mechanized signs,
    dotombori-signs-2.jpg
  • Faces at Dotonbori Hotel -The Dotonbori Hotel in Osaka welcomes guests with an amazing entrance featuring four huge columns with faces depicting the special qualities in human beings. The face columns act as a landmark and define the hotel's unique architecture.
    dotombori-hotel-3.jpg
  • Jumbo Pachinko is well known as a classic pachinko parlor.  In modern Japan, pachinko places are often not appreciated by the neighbors because of the loud noise, and garish colors from the old style of parlour.  Updated pachinko parlors now usually resemble swank shopping malls or generic buildings so as to blend in more with the neibhorhood.  Still, some of the old style neon pachinko parlours remain.  One of the most famous is Jumbo Pachinko in Shinjuku.  Think: garish blinking lights, overwhelming noise, zombies like customers and players.
    jumbo-pachinko-05.jpg
  • Jumbo Pachinko is well known as a classic pachinko parlor.  In modern Japan, pachinko places are often not appreciated by the neighbors because of the loud noise, and garish colors from the old style of parlour.  Updated pachinko parlors now usually resemble swank shopping malls or generic buildings so as to blend in more with the neibhorhood.  Still, some of the old style neon pachinko parlours remain.  One of the most famous is Jumbo Pachinko in Shinjuku.  Think: garish blinking lights, overwhelming noise, zombies like customers and players.
    jumbo-pachinko-04.jpg
  • Jumbo Pachinko is well known as a classic pachinko parlor.  In modern Japan, pachinko places are often not appreciated by the neighbors because of the loud noise, and garish colors from the old style of parlour.  Updated pachinko parlors now usually resemble swank shopping malls or generic buildings so as to blend in more with the neibhorhood.  Still, some of the old style neon pachinko parlours remain.  One of the most famous is Jumbo Pachinko in Shinjuku.  Think: garish blinking lights, overwhelming noise, zombies like customers and players.
    jumbo-pachinko-03.jpg
  • Jumbo Pachinko is well known as a classic pachinko parlor.  In modern Japan, pachinko places are often not appreciated by the neighbors because of the loud noise, and garish colors from the old style of parlour.  Updated pachinko parlors now usually resemble swank shopping malls or generic buildings so as to blend in more with the neibhorhood.  Still, some of the old style neon pachinko parlours remain.  One of the most famous is Jumbo Pachinko in Shinjuku.  Think: garish blinking lights, overwhelming noise, zombies like customers and players.
    jumbo-pachinko-01.jpg
  • The Tanabata Festival celebrates the meeting of Vega and Altair as "star crossed lovers". Sometimes this is called the Star Tanabata. The Milky Way separates these lovers, and they are allowed to meet only once a year on the seventh day of the seventh lunar month of the lunar calendar. Since the stars come out at night, the celebration is held at night. Hiratsuka, Kanagawa-ken, is one of the most elaborate spectacles of the special lanterns that decorate the event.
    tanabata-26.jpg
  • The Tanabata Festival celebrates the meeting of Vega and Altair as "star crossed lovers". Sometimes this is called the Star Tanabata. The Milky Way separates these lovers, and they are allowed to meet only once a year on the seventh day of the seventh lunar month of the lunar calendar. Since the stars come out at night, the celebration is held at night. Hiratsuka, Kanagawa-ken, is one of the most elaborate spectacles of the special lanterns that decorate the event.
    tanabata-22.jpg
  • The Tanabata Festival celebrates the meeting of Vega and Altair as "star crossed lovers". Sometimes this is called the Star Tanabata. The Milky Way separates these lovers, and they are allowed to meet only once a year on the seventh day of the seventh lunar month of the lunar calendar. Since the stars come out at night, the celebration is held at night. Hiratsuka, Kanagawa-ken, is one of the most elaborate spectacles of the special lanterns that decorate the event.
    tanabata-20.jpg
  • The Tanabata Festival celebrates the meeting of Vega and Altair as "star crossed lovers". Sometimes this is called the Star Tanabata. The Milky Way separates these lovers, and they are allowed to meet only once a year on the seventh day of the seventh lunar month of the lunar calendar. Since the stars come out at night, the celebration is held at night. Hiratsuka, Kanagawa-ken, is one of the most elaborate spectacles of the special lanterns that decorate the event.
    tanabata-19.jpg
  • The Tanabata Festival celebrates the meeting of Vega and Altair as "star crossed lovers". Sometimes this is called the Star Tanabata. The Milky Way separates these lovers, and they are allowed to meet only once a year on the seventh day of the seventh lunar month of the lunar calendar. Since the stars come out at night, the celebration is held at night. Hiratsuka, Kanagawa-ken, is one of the most elaborate spectacles of the special lanterns that decorate the event.
    tanabata-17.jpg
  • The Tanabata Festival celebrates the meeting of Vega and Altair as "star crossed lovers". Sometimes this is called the Star Tanabata. The Milky Way separates these lovers, and they are allowed to meet only once a year on the seventh day of the seventh lunar month of the lunar calendar. Since the stars come out at night, the celebration is held at night. Hiratsuka, Kanagawa-ken, is one of the most elaborate spectacles of the special lanterns that decorate the event.
    tanabata-14.jpg
  • The Tanabata Festival celebrates the meeting of Vega and Altair as "star crossed lovers". Sometimes this is called the Star Tanabata. The Milky Way separates these lovers, and they are allowed to meet only once a year on the seventh day of the seventh lunar month of the lunar calendar. Since the stars come out at night, the celebration is held at night. Hiratsuka, Kanagawa-ken, is one of the most elaborate spectacles of the special lanterns that decorate the event.
    tanabata-13.jpg
  • Loi Krathong is celebrated annually throughout Thailand.  The custom could be translated as Floating Decoration coming from the old tradition of floating decorations on a waterway.  (Loi means 'to float', while krathong refers to the vessel itself). Traditional krathong are made from a banana tree trunk though modern ones are often made of bread as a bread krathong will disintegrate after a few days and can be eaten by fish. Banana stalk krathong are also biodegradable.  Styrofoam krathongs are becoming less and less popular, as they take years to decompose. A krathong is decorated with elaborately-folded banana leaves, incense sticks and a candle.  On the night of the full moon, Thais launch their krathong on a river, canal or a pond - making a wish as they do so. The festival originates from an ancient ritual paying respect to the water spirits.
    kratong-7.jpg
  • Launching a Krathong at Chatuchak Park Pond - Loi Krathong is celebrated every November throughout Thailand.  The custom could be translated as "Floating Decoration" coming from the old tradition of floating decorations on a waterway.  (Loi means 'to float', while krathong refers to the vessel itself). Traditional krathong are made from the banana tree trunk though modern ones are can be made of bread as these will disintegrate after a few days and can be eaten by fish.  Banana stalk krathong are also biodegradable.  Styrofoam krathongs are becoming less and less popular, as they take years to decompose. A krathong is decorated with elaborately-folded banana leaves, incense sticks and a candle.  On the night of the full moon, Thais launch their krathong on waterway - making a wish as they do so. The festival originates from an ancient ritual paying respect to the water spirits.
    kratong-8.jpg
  • Loi Krathong is celebrated annually throughout Thailand.  The custom could be translated as Floating Decoration coming from the old tradition of floating decorations on a waterway.  (Loi means 'to float', while krathong refers to the vessel itself). Traditional krathong are made from a banana tree trunk though modern ones are often made of bread as a bread krathong will disintegrate after a few days and can be eaten by fish. Banana stalk krathong are also biodegradable.  Styrofoam krathongs are becoming less and less popular, as they take years to decompose. A krathong is decorated with elaborately-folded banana leaves, incense sticks and a candle.  On the night of the full moon, Thais launch their krathong on a river, canal or a pond - making a wish as they do so. The festival originates from an ancient ritual paying respect to the water spirits.
    kratong-10.jpg
  • Supertree Grove is a  uniquely designed vertical garden made up of artificial tall "trees".  Their canopies provide shade in the day and come alive at night with a fabulous display of light and sound.  The supertrees at their largest go up to 16 storeys in height most of which are in the Supertree Grove.  The remaining six are in smaller clusters at the Golden and Silver Gardens at Gardens by the Bay.  As if this is not enough of a "wow" factor, you can stroll along the Skyway, a walkway that connects Supertrees for a different view of the Gardens.
    supertree-grove-4.jpg
  • Raj Mandir Cinema is a famous movie theater in Jaipur. The cinema has shown many movie premieres of Bollywood films.  It was designed by architect W.M. Namjoshi in art moderne style.  The exterior of the building is made up of various shapes, zigzags and curves set into the facade.
    raj-mandir-cinema-1.jpg
  • The Bahai Lotus Temple in Delhi is famous for its lotus-like shape.  Inspired by a flowering lotus, the design is encircled by 27 marble petals around its sides. The lotus is a suitable symbol for the Bahai faith as the plant plays an important role and figures prominently in Buddhist, Zoroastrian and Hindu faiths.  One of the most visited buildings in the world, on average 9000 people visit the Bahai House of Worship each day.
    lotus-temple-delhi-2.jpg
  • Borobudur is a Mahayana Buddhist Temple in Magelang, Central Java.  The monument consists of six square platforms topped by three circular one, and is festooned with 2,672 bas-relief panels and 504 Buddha statues.  The main dome is empty, located at the center of the top platform, though it is surrounded by 72 Buddha statues seated inside a perforated stupas.  Borobudur was constructed in the 9th century and abandoned after the 14th century because of the decline of Buddhism in Java, and the Javanese conversion to Islam.  Worldwide knowledge of its existence was rekindled in 1814 by Sir Thomas Stamford Raffles, at that time the British ruler of Java, who was told of its location by local Indonesians. Borobudur has since been preserved through several restorations and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.  Borobudur is the largest Buddhist temple in the world built over 1200 years ago.
    borobudur-4.jpg
  • Municipal Theatre of Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Saigon Opera House is a superb example of French-Colonial architecture in Vietnam.  The opera house was built in 1897 by French architect Eugene Ferret and was called Opera de Saigon.  Its architectural style was influenced by the flamboyant style of the French Third Republic, with the facade shaped like the Petit Palais in Paris which was built in the same year in France.
    saigon-opera-house-5.jpg
  • Municipal Theatre of Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Saigon Opera House is a superb example of French-Colonial architecture in Vietnam.  The opera house was built in 1897 by French architect Eugene Ferret and was called Opera de Saigon.  Its architectural style was influenced by the flamboyant style of the French Third Republic, with the facade shaped like the Petit Palais in Paris which was built in the same year in France.
    saigon-opera-house-8.jpg
  • Tokyo's famous Kabuki-za Theater first opened in 1889 and has been closed since 2010 for renovations.  Kabuki-za's reconstruction was due to concerns over the building's ability to survive earthquakes, as well as accessibility issues. It now has its own subway entrance and exit.  It's grand opening is set for early April 2013. Japan's traditional performing art of Kabuki is loved by people around the world. Rhythmical lines spoken by actors, colorful makeup and a stage full of devices for special effects are essential characteristics of Kabuki, but the most important is that all the roles, including those of women are played by male actors.
    kabuki-za-7.jpg
  • Shin Ohashi Bridge on the Sumida River. Shin Ohashi or "New Bridge" built in 1976, replaced the original bridge built in 1693.
    shin-ohashi-bridge-2.jpg
  • The Eitai-bashi Bridge or just Eitai Bridge dates from 1924, replacing a bridge built in 1696.  The Sumida River or Sumida-gawa as it is known in Japanese, is a river which flowing through Tokyo. It branches from the Arakawa River and flows into Tokyo Bay. Its tributaries include the Kanda and Shakujii rivers. What is now known as the "Sumida River" was previously the path of the Arakawa River, however towards the end of the Meiji period the rivers were diverted from the main flow of the Arakawa to prevent flooding.
    eitai-bashi-bridge-1.jpg
  • Tokyo Marunouchi Building, formerly Tokyo General Post Office GPO
    tokyo-marunouchi-gpo-2.jpg
  • Ghost Bridge - The Malacca River cuts across Malacca town on its way to the Straits of Malacca.  The river played an important role in the development of Malacca as it was an important conduit for trade. In addition to being the source of fresh water it enabled access to the interior so that forest products such as rattan, cane and resin could to be brought down to market. As you cruise up the river, you will be able to see old shophouses along its banks. After the Malacca Bridge near the Dutch Square, the second bridge you will pass under is the Chan Boon Cheng Bridge.  After the Chan Boon Cheng Bridge, the next bridge across the river is a foot bridge which the locals call the Ghostbridge of Malacca. How it got the name remains a mystery. Further on, another pedestrian bridge called the Old Market Bridge can be seen. The Kampung Morten footbridge is probably the river's showpiece.
    ghost-bridge-1.jpg
  • Hang Tuah Bridge - The Malacca River is the river that cuts across Malacca town, on its way to the Straits of Malacca. It separates the civic district clustered at the foot of St Paul's Hill, from the residential and commercial district of Heeren Street and Jonker Street. Malacca plays an important role in the development of Malacca. In the good old days the Malacca River was an important conduit for trade. In addition to being the source of fresh water it enabled access to the interior so that forest produce such as rattan, cane and resin, could to be brought down to market. As you cruise up the river, you will be able to see old shophouses along its banks. These shophouses have their warehouses, called godowns so that goods can unloaded directly from the river into them. After the Malacca Bridge near the Dutch Square, the second bridge you will pass under is the Chan Boon Cheng Bridge.  After the Chan Boon Cheng Bridge, the next bridge across the river is a foot bridge which the locals call the Ghostbridge of Malacca. How it got the name remains a mystery. Further on, another pedestrian bridge called the Old Market Bridge can be seen. The final sight before heading back on your cruise is the famous "Kampung Morten" and the Kampung Morten footbridge. .
    hang-tuah-bridge-1.jpg
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