Ashoka Newmedia

Japanese holidays and Peak Travel Seasons - Holiday periods to avoid when visiting Tokyo. Tokyo hotels often raise their rates during Japanese holidays and peak travel seasons. They might also be fully booked, so try to do your booking well in advance. The weekends before and after major Japanese festivals are also likely to be crowded on trains and airports. On the other hand, staying in Tokyo can be a pleasure, since many Tokyo people leave the city and it becomes less crowded. - Japanese New Year - December 27 to January 4, plus weekends before and after. Note that some museums, shops and restaurants in Tokyo close for several days. - "Golden Week" - Japanese vacation season (April[..]

your step into Jakarta is an introduction to the amazing variety of traditional Indonesian music, dance and cultural arts. Jakarta's long history has made it a fascinating place to visit. Visitors reserve cheap flights to Jakarta for it has something to offer every one. It has a vibrant culture, and many displays of architecture work to attract visitors having interest in arts and history. Party lovers will enjoy the nightlife at plenty of venues where visitors can dance the night away. It is rightly said that Jakarta is a fusion of old and new traditions. One needs to reserve cheap flights to Jakarta from UK, to enjoy life at its best in Jakarta, which are not difficult to reserve[..]

Bodh Gaya is the place where Gautama Buddha attained supreme Enlightenment. It is among the most popular North India attractions which is visited by people of all caste and religion. Though it is a sacred Buddhist Pilgrimage but people from all religion come here to receive blessings. This is the most important of the main four pilgrimage sites related to the life of Gautama Buddha, the other three being Kushinagar, Lumbini, and Sarnath. It is a religious place in Gaya district in the State of Bihar. This religious land is among the famous attractions of North India tourism which is known for Buddhist monuments, temples and monasteries reflecting the historical as well as religious[..]

The most common criticism about Buddhism that it is an atheistic religion. Buddhists definitely do believe in God but they would not normally use the word 'God' because that word is almost always taken to mean belief in a personal God, in other words a Theistic belief in God. Theism is a belief in a personal God, who created everything and intervenes in the Universe. He is a supernatural being, loving, all-powerful, wise and merciful and although present everywhere is always considered to be utterly separate from mankind. The Buddhist conception of God is sometimes thought to be Pantheistic, which suggests that God is the sum total of the universe, in other words that God is identical[..]

The imposing statue of the Bosatsu, which was created for a large, previously unknown Buddhist temple in Japan, was manufactured on the basis of the stylistic characteristics about 1830. Heinrich von Siebold (1852-1908), the second son of the Japanese scholar Philipp Franz von Siebold, brought it about 1880 to Vienna. He came in 1869 in his early years to Japan, where he found a position at the Austro-Hungarian embassy in Tokyo. At that time, Japan was in every sense of upheaval. Many Buddhist temples were closed and fell gradually. Buddhist paintings, sculptures, ritual objects and Others were destroyed or sold cheap. Many foreigners took advantage of the hour. Even Heinrich von Siebold[..]

Compassionate meditation is also called metta meditation. "Metta" means loving kindness in Sanskrit. I have been doing this meditation since I was 18 years old, it was taught to me by a Buddhist monk. It has since helped me to live up to my life's challenges until today. This meditation has helped me on the path of achieving my Doctorate Degree and my career as a Qualified Accountant and also having a loving family. This is not about superstitious but this meditation is about "Positive Mind" and "Action" and "Determination/Persistence". It is a very simple meditation, it started with wishing me happiness and freedom from physical and mental suffering (as one has to be emotionally healthy[..]

The pilgrimage is a spiritual journey to a sacred place or shrine. Any movement or sense of morality is exalted pilgrimage. All followers of world religions such as Christianity, Islam, Hinduism and Buddhism believe in pilgrimage.   Christen believe in pilgrimage to the invocation of the relationship with the Lord Jesus and through him to God. The pilgrimage is an important part of spiritual life for many Christen. Christen see life as a spiritual journey to God and returns to God through the Lord Jesus. The pilgrim seeks to separate himself from the daily concerns of the world, and spending time with the Lord Jesus in a place linked to his physical existence.   There is a list of[..]

Tibet is the referred real Shangri-la, the forbidden land, the roof of the world and the holy land of your innermost desire. Tibet has snowy mountains and grasslands, scattered herds of yak and nomads on the plateau, spectacular monasteries and unsophisticated smiles, tranquil lake and transparent blue sky. These are just a few of the reasons visitors to Tibet often find themselves coming back. The first stop for most Tibet tours is inevitably Lhasa, the capital of Tibet Province. Colorful and historic, the holy city of Lhasa lies in a small valley 3700 meters above sea level. The Potala Palace and Jokhang are the must-see destinations for visitors to Lhasa.   Potala Palace is the[..]

Ta Prohm was originally called Rajavihara, which means Royal Temple. It was built by King Jayavarman VII in the late 12th and early 13th centuries. He was the most prolific builder of all the Angkor Kings, which is quite a distinction when one considers the number of temples erected during the Empire's golden age. The majority of the sites on the Little Circuit were constructed during his reign. Jayavarman VII's rose to power as one of the Empire's greatest generals. Prior to his ascension to the throne, Angkor was sacked by the Chams, another empire based in present day Vietnam and one of the primary rivals of the Khmer Empire. When the neighboring Chams overthrew the Empire and killed[..]

The Tibetan people came into being through the union of a monkey (a manifestation of the Bodhisattva of Compassion - Avalokiteshvara) and an ogress. This union, according to the myth, took place on Gangpo Ri mountain at Tsetang. The pair produced six offspring who are seen as the ancestors of the six main tribes in Tibet - Se, Mu, Dong, Tong, Dru and Ra. The introduction of Buddhism came about in the mid-3rd century when the 28th King of Tibet received the first Buddhist Scriptures. According to legend, the Scriptures fell on the roof of Yambulagong - Tibet's first fortress. Yambulagong is in the Yarlung Valley area, which was controlled by the Yarlung kings, where the civilization of[..]

The Sixth Chakra - 'The Third-Eye', (governing center of consciousness). This dynamic spinning wheel of energy sits firmly within undifferentiated awareness. Here the dance of mind and body move in rhythmic patterns. To enter this portal we must identify a vehicle that will open the door to comprehension. Tibetan Buddhism is such a vehicle, it's practice paves the path to awakening planting the seeds of self- realization and stimulating intricate qualities inherent within each of us. Attributes; 6th Chakra:location; between eyebrows,sacred geometry; 5 pointed star,physical connection; pituitary gland,planetary connection; our Moon,sound; 'aum', (C+) The Sixth chakra is critical yet[..]

Mudra, the Sanskrit word usually denotes a hand gestures and finger postures that are used in Buddhism. Such mudras are associated with the images of Buddhas and Bodhisattvas to represent different teachings and philosophy of Buddhism. A statue or painting of buddha always illustrates Mudra. Among hundreds of mudras, the five transcendental Buddha's also called "Dhyani Buddhas" or "Pancha Buddhas" bear the most important mudras. Five Mudras of Dhyani Buddhas and their meanings are as follows: Dharmachakra Mudra - Vairochana: Vairochana is regarded as the first Dhyani Buddha in Nepalese-Tibetan Buddhism. He represents the cosmic element of Rupa (form). His two hands are held against the[..]

Bön, or more precisely Yung Drung Bön, is the original religion and culture of Tibet. It emerged with ancient Tibetan kingdom called Zhang Zhung. The religion has its founder and uses counter-clockwise svastika. It has survived up to present days in Nepal in the Dolpo region, which historians consider to be the last resource of the original (animistic) Tibetan tradition preserved in the world. We can find here the proto pre-Buddhist Tibetan culture, which Buddhists suppressed in other areas of the Himalayas (Tibet). Bön is also referred to as Bonpo or Bon-po. The culture (kingdom) of Zhang Zhung, Xang Xung, or Shang Shung had its center right near the Mount Kailash, and it[..]

The Om symbol is a very important symbol in Tibetan jewelry and accessories. The word 'Om,' Aum is the primordial symbol, the first sound ever heard, and the sound that the earth was created by. The sound, om, starts with an opening of the lips and ends with a closing. This represents pulling all things into the body while making the sound, 'om.' The Om sound is similar to the Greek Logos, and in Christianity Om could be linked to the Christian Amen. Everything in the world both begins and ends with the Om. The Om symbol is found in both Hinduism and Buddhism, and began in Hinduism, but I will first discuss the sound om and its cosmology in the context of Tibetan Buddhism. In Tibetan[..]

Bangkok is a melting pot of variety and adventure and a trip to this inspiring nation is sure to be a trip of a life time. Drawing visitors from all corners of the world, whether it’s for business or leisure, Bangkok will surprise you every time with its rich culture and exuberance. With many things to do when you visit this delightful city, on the top of the list is definitely shopping. With bargain prices available on items from a CD to silk cloths, it would be a shame to miss out on shopping in this shopper’s heaven. When thinking of a place to shop what better place can you think of than the Chatuchak Weekend Market, which is famous among Thais and foreigners alike. Opened on[..]

Bangkok is intermingling of something old and something new, between its mega malls and endless streets full of shopping avenues lay relics and powerful reminders of the past. Thailand is referred to as a ‘land of smiles’, and its capital is its powerhouse. Bangkok beckons people from all walks of life, and wallets of varying sizes. Known to be one of the most travelled to and most desired tourist destinations, Bangkok won’t disappoint you. Of the many wonderful things to appreciate about this nation in all her unrestrained glory is their world renowned Thai silk. The origins of silk itself was set to have come from China. Empress Si Ling Chi was seated under a Mulberry tree in her[..]

When it comes to the world of aquatics, everyone loves to observe marine life. Many of us don’t get the opportunity to dive in the ocean and watch these beautiful creatures. Why lament anymore, if you have a place to witness those creatures in convenience of Siam Ocean World. This aquatic arena covers an area of 10,000 square meters on the basement of a famous shopping mall. It’s not only just one of the main attractions in the city; it’s also a learning center for kids. It has over 30,000 marine creatures belongs to 400 different species. The novel concept of dividing the whole area to seven different environments, gives visitors a novel experience of learning.  ‘Weird and[..]

Why people from across the globe keep coming back to Bali Islands? The one definite answer is not only because of the beautiful and amazing scenery in the Island but also the admirable and unique culture of the place. Bali natives and Bali people are very hospitable among the tourists they showed hospitality and rich culture that they want them to remember for a very long time. Bali living is quite laid back and you don’t feel stress unlike in the busy city. One factor that supplies to this laid back lifestyle is the culture of close family ties in Bali. In the Balinese culture, support is always on hand. Balinese extended families are so tightly knit that all members usually reside[..]

Muay Thai is a form of kick boxing that is thought to have emerged from the battle field when fighters lost their weapons. It evolves from the ancient system of Muay Borang (traditional boxing) and incorporates martial arts practices. Practitioners are of the belief that the art hails from over two thousand years ago. The uniqueness arises out of the use of the entire body in true martial art form and the eight contact points system of the art. Whereas western style adaptations incorporate only the fists (2 point contact) Muay Thai uses the elbow, knee, hip, fist, palm, arm etc as contact points. Originally used for combat, the fighting system developed into an art and started enjoying[..]

In almost every corner of the world, one can find Thai cuisine. Often adapted to suit the varying palates, none can come close to the extensive variety and delicacies on offer in Thailand. Thai cuisine is region specific, but most forms and variances can be found in her glorified capital city of Bangkok. Finding food is not an impossible task in Bangkok, with hawkers dotting the streets or what is locally referred to as sois, there is always some local fare to sample. A common manner of greeting someone in Thailand is by saying “Gin khao ru yang?” which in literal translation means “have you eaten?” but in retrospect is a means of asking someone how they are. This culminated with[..]

If you're determined to explore Asia but unsure which country to visit, you might want to set your sites on Far East Asia and travel to Japan. Here is some general but useful information that is good to know when you travel Japan. It will help you get a better understanding of Japan before your trip and allow you to experience Japan more comfortably. About the Country Japan consists of four main islands and several smaller ones. Together the islands take the shape of a sea horse and occupy an area of 377,435 square kms. Tokyo, the capital city, is very modern and bustling with activity, so when you travel to Japan, be ready for a few crowds. The landscape of Japan, away from the big[..]

World Religion Studies, as taught by Natural Healing Schools, educates students about various religious beliefs and philosophies in order to enhance alternative healing methods. Students explore the historical, psychological, and religious expressions of various world cultures to cultivate a deeper understanding of true physical health and spiritual wellbeing. World Religion Studies investigates the influence that religious practices may provide to the body's ability to heal itself, as well as to our spiritual presence in the natural world. World Religion Studies students learn by exposition, interpretation, and discussion of the relevance of the world's religions to spiritual and[..]

If you're determined to explore Asia but unsure which country to stay, you might want to set your sites on Far East Asia and voyage to Japan. Here is some broad but valuable information that is good to know when you trek Japan. It will help you get a better understanding of Japan before your tour and allow you to experience Japan more comfortably. About the Country Japan consists of four focal islands and some lesser ones. Together the islands take the shape of a sea steed and inhabit a vicinity of 377,435 fair kms. Tokyo, the capital city, is very novel and bustling with activity, so when you tour to Japan, be glad for a few crowds. The landscape of Japan, away from the big cities, is[..]

If you have been asked to be a worship leader for the first time, one of the questions you need to ask yourself yourself is, "What are the best worship songs which I can use?" Unfortunately, there is no blanket statement or tough and fast list of songs which fulfils the standards of the best worship songs. The best worship songs for your church may be other to the best worship songs for an additional church in another denomination in another element of the country, therefore when you purchase up to face your congregation for the awfully first time as a praise and worship leader, are there a few tips and recommendation that you are able look to that create the job easier. When you make a[..]

There is a plan, a specifically designed destiny for each person on this earth. This destiny is productive, fulfilling and very rewarding. All other destinies pale in comparison, falling way short of the true destiny created for each person on earth. The problem is most people live and die without ever fulfilling their true destiny. Therefore it is important not to settle on anything but your true destiny to have a productive, fulfilling and rewarding life during your earthly pilgrimage. I will explain in two steps how you can achieve your destiny and fulfill God's plan for you. Step 1. You must join a program, His program. It must be joined to reap the benefits of God's destiny for your[..]

After you have had a traumatic experience, such as: the onset of a major illness, the death of a child, the loss of a job, the murder of a relative, the recuperation from a major accident or illness, etc., you may begin to question: Why are we alive? I began to ask those same questions, in 1980, after I had a job politically undermined. Rightly or wrongly, I was brought up to believe that if you did the right thing and were honest with people, things would work out. What I found out was, my beliefs were wrong. If people wanted to be negative, they could. Things did not always work out. Yes, I made mistakes. I was not as assertive as I should have been when I realized things were going[..]

Though the name of India is not included by the World Tourism Organization (WTO) among the top ten courtiers of the world in terms of "most visited" by numbers of travelers, in terms of tourism earners, in terms of most visited attractions, still the Indian economy has been boosted by new emerging trends of various types of Indian tourism and it continues to grow. There are a number of factors responsible for the growth of Indian tourism at global level. India is a peaceful country without any political disturbance except for few destinations where a tourist is required to get special permission from local authority to enter into that area. The country has a federal structure with[..]

Mae Sariang is a very small town with a population of just 50,000. As a tourist destination it often gets overlooked, its true there are very few recreational or entertainment facilities in town but what it lacks in entertainment it makes up for in authenticity, tradition and culture. Once an important trading town with Burma in the 1950s many buildings from this era still remain, the town is characterized by old wooden shophouses and ornate Shan temples. A good friend of mine and local in Mae Sariang once told me that going to the temple was so pivotal in Shan culture, that in prior times people could never live somewhere that was further than walking distance to a temple. Which[..]

Assam : Derived from the Sanskrit word – “Ahom”, Assam is a mystical beauty of North East India.The state is famous for many reasons. One of the major one is it is the largest producer of Tea in India. It is estimated that Assam grows 60% of total tea prdouction in India. Guwahati is the capital city of Assam. If you are visiting Assam, there are number of travel attractions to watch out : ? Kaziranga National Park ? Manas National Park ? Kamakhya temple Arunachal Pradesh: North East India is blessed with another beautiful state. It is one of the least densely populated states in India. Aruncahal Pradesh is also considered the nature’s treasure trove, as it is[..]

Population: 1.3 billion (UN, 2005) Capital: Beijing Area: 9.6 million sq km (3.7 million sq miles) Major language: Mandarin Chinese Major religions: Buddhism, Christianity, Islam, Taoism Life expectancy: 70 years (men), 73 years (women) (UN) Monetary unit: 1 Renminbi (yuan) (Y) = 10 jiao = 100 fen CHINA The People's Republic of China - one of the world's oldest and thriving civilizations consisting of states and cultures dating back to more than 6 millennia, outpacing the rest of the world in arts and sciences. Ancient China is the master creator of four of the most critical innovations in our modern world: paper, compass, gunpowder, and printing, says British biochemist and scholar[..]

- Population: 48.2 million (UN, 2005) - Capital: Seoul - Area: 99,313 sq km (38,345 sq miles) - Major language: Korean - Major religions: Buddhism, Christianity - Life expectancy: 73 years (men), 80 years (women) (UN) - Monetary unit: won This southern half of the Korean peninsula is the world's window to Korea having maintained affable diplomatic relations with 170 countries in the world. South Korea has been building up a tourism profile that is gradually but outstandingly gaining international fame with the slogan "Sparkling Korea". A truly dazzling culture, the new "Korea Wave" that flooded Asia is now opening itself to a bigger international audience sharing with the world its[..]

BHUTAN Population: 2.4 million (UN, 2005; some estimates are significantly lower) Capital: Thimphu Area: 38,364 sq km (14,812 sq miles) Major language: Dzongkha (official) Major religions: Buddhism (official), Hinduism Life expectancy: 62 years (men), 64 years (women) (UN) Monetary unit: 1 ngultrum = 100 chetrum High up in the Himalayas is a place called Drak Yul, Land of the Thunder Dragon, conveyed clearly, with its national flag and a menacing dragon emblem in focus, a mighty independent country of strong policies in South Asia. This is perhaps way too much information than the outside world cares to know about the trivial-by-impression mountain kingdom. The Kingdom of Bhutan is a[..]

Sam's life journey is a road of twists and turns, love and loss, poverty and wealth. Sam grew up on the South side of Chicago, and after the loss of his parents Sam is sent to live with his Aunt and Uncle. He hears their whispers in the night and knows that they can hardly afford to raise another mouth to feed. He works part-time jobs sweeping barbershop floors and running barefoot down coal tar streets delivering flowers, trying to ease the financial burden on his Aunt and Uncle. When a position working in the church becomes available, Sam moves into the basement, and his little cot beside the furnace becomes his sanctuary. He devours all the books scattered about the church in search[..]

Population: 50.7 million (UN, 2005) Capital: Rangoon (Yangon) (authorities say the seat of government is moving to Pyinmana, north of Rangoon) Area: 676,552 sq km (261,218 sq miles) Major languages: Burmese, indigenous ethnic languages Major religions: Buddhism, Christianity, Islam Life expectancy: 57 years (men), 63 years (women) (UN) Monetary unit: 1 kyat = 100 pyas Union of Myanmar is a place that revokes the exotic and is unsullied by the taint of Western influence for the most parts, making it a wonderful place to visit. Like a flower in bloom, it is a country gradually opening up to the world to share its natural prowess and immensely culture, for it is the melting pot of the West[..]

Have you felt a calling? Do you hear the sound of a distant bell leading you home?If you understand what I mean by that then either consciously or subconsciously you are yearning for spiritual growth. An inner desire to take your personal development to a level beyond the mere physical. Speaking personally, I have felt this calling all my life. And the more I have searched for spiritual direction and awakening the further away I seem to have been taken. It always felt like I was taking one step forward and two steps back and that has hard as I tried to raise my consciousness to a spiritual level the harder the temptations of the physical world dragged me back down. I tried Christianity,[..]