Imperial Tours

Chinese people love "Hairy Crab" season. Originating from the Yangtze River Delta region, they have been a beloved treat of Chinese cuisine for centuries. More technically known as "Mitten Crabs", the best time to savour them is in late autumn, when they are plump and rich in flavour. Often, the meat and roe are used as a delicacy in seasonal dishes. I love the moment when I crack open the shell to dig into that sweet, tender meat. It’s a delicious annual ritual for our family. (Lilly Tian)

A selection of fabulous creations from the annual Craft Trend Fair in Seoul. From ceramics to metalwork to textiles to lacquer, the halls were ablaze with color and creativity. It was such a joy to meet artisans from all over the country, learning about their passion to keep Korean traditional craftsmanship alive whilst imbibing their works with their own modern twist.

For decades, photographers have been passionate about capturing the Great Wall’s unexpected beauty in each of the four seasons. Many opt to stay at local inns in nearby villages so as to be better placed for the best shots. Have you ever stood alone, listening to the sound of falling snowflakes? Or watched winter grass sprout through melting ice? On a quiet winter’s day, I have done both. In summer, the landscape becomes a sea of green, and then in fall a carpet of golden leaves. Each season reveals a unique charm - a place where history and nature blend together. Leon Liao, Beijing tour guide

No trip to Korea is complete without trying Kimchi, the heart and soul of Korean cuisine. Besides the iconic red cabbage kimchi, there are countless others such as those made with radish, cucumbers and even those made without chilli. Winter is kimjang season when families and communities come together to make kimchi for the winter.

The sheer scale of the Harbin ice festival was beyond my imagination. Ice sculptures are built into town-sized structures; I crossed a large bridge into a building and enjoyed a warm coffee in a bar made entirely of ice. Meanwhile, intricate snow sculptures are taller than the artists themselves. The adjacent Songhua River becomes a local playground for children out practicing their skating skills and their parents eager for a wintry plunge. The Harbin Ice Festival runs from Late December to mid-February.

Enjoyed a great visit to famed Jeju Island!

Lhasa, the heart and soul of Tibet is so wonderfully unique. The pilgrims in traditional garb caught my attention - some of them having trekked for over a thousand miles toward the Jokhang Temple and holy Barkhor. The looks of exhaustion and devotion were humbling to witness. For many in the region, the traditional way of life remains a mainstay. Away from the bustle, milky blue lakes and multicoloured trees were reminiscent of the Alps; if it weren’t for the yaks I could easily be fooled. Tibet is a destination like no other. Imperial Tours can assist with the permits necessary to visit.

One of Hong Kong's hidden gems, I visited Sha Tau Kok village which straddles the city's border with Mainland China. With the demarkation line dissecting its main street, the area requires a special permit to visit. This unique arrangement has thwarted development, leaving parts of town frozen in time since its heyday in the 1950's. It boasts four declared monuments and dozens of graded historical buildings - in particular I admired the 20th Century shop houses which are rare in the city. At Chung Ying Street where borders meet, guards stand side by side as ex-colonial territory ends abruptly. Limited day permits are now available for tourism purposes, which Imperial Tours can help arrange. - Terence Parker (COO)

Embark on an unforgettable adventure to Seoraksan, Korea’s most breathtaking mountain range known for its majestic peaks and vibrant fall foliage! Hike through scenic trails, explore hidden temples, and immerse yourself in nature’s beauty at every turn. Whether you're here for the stunning views or the thrill of the climb, Seoraksan promises an experience that will leave you in awe of Korea’s natural wonders. #VisitKorea

As autumn sets in, Korea’s landscapes burst into vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow. With 70% of the country covered by mountains, the fall foliage creates a stunning canvas wherever you go. Whether you're exploring ancient palaces or hiking the mountains, Korea's natural beauty in autumn is something you don’t want to miss. Witness the breathtaking colors of the season and make unforgettable memories. #VisitKorea

IMPERIAL KOREA 101 - Introducing Busan, South Korea’s Coastal Metropolis

Discover the charm of Jeonju, the cultural heart of South Korea! Famous for its traditional hanok village, this historic city offers a unique glimpse into Korea’s rich heritage. Stroll through centuries-old streets, try your hand at making bibimbap (Jeonju is a UNESCO City of Gastronomy), explore ancient temples and hike at nearby Jirisan. Whether you're diving into the past or savoring the local flavors, Jeonju is the perfect destination for an authentic Korean experience. #VisitKorea