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Japan

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While China is still trying to clean up its pollution for the 2008 Olympics, while they are still sorting out their human right issues, while the entire world is still thinking it's an exotic place to visit, avoid it.

Firstly, visiting China means battling other tourists for the best photo spot on the Great Wall; battling the ever increasing locals who know how to rip you off just because you don't speak the language; and never knowing if you've accidentally caused trouble for a local family, simply by trying to discuss certain things with them, that are still forbidden to be spoken about by the Chinese government.

While we wait for all that to clear, let's go to Japan.

Japan is a fascinating place. While its technology and economy overtakes many of the western countries, the country still has a tight grip on its cultural and traditional values. While being about to buy almost any sort of gadget and invention, there are also places where calm and traditional spiritual practices contrast the chaos and madness of the cities.

There is no need to haggle for prices, there is no need to worry about pollution (well, not to the extend of China) and relatively there are still less tourists in Japan than China.

For someone who practices martial arts, I am also drawn to Japan as the origin of many martial arts. The thought of being able to practice among the best in the world intrigues me. As to many other martial artists as well I am sure.

Learn more about this author, Amy Huang.
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