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Vienna, Austria
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Taipei, Taiwan
Start in Intramuros for colonial architecture and street food, then explore Binondo (the world's oldest Chinatown) for local eats. The Philippines goes all-out for Christmas — expect festive lanterns (parols), caroling and decorated streets from November. BGC and Poblacion offer great cafés and independent shops for a more local vibe.
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Fukuoka, Japan
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Hiroshima, Japan
Base yourself in the Da'an or Zhongzheng district for central access to MRT lines covering everything from Jiufen day trips to night markets. Huashan 1914 and Songshan Cultural Park are walking distance from most central hotels and are essential for design and maker culture. Guanghua Digital Plaza is Southeast Asia's best electronics market — perfect for sourcing components before Maker Faire Shenzhen.
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Osaka, Japan
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Kyoto, Japan
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Tokyo, Japan
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Hong Kong, Hong Kong
Stay in Sheung Wan or Jordan for easy MTR access to both Kowloon and Hong Kong Island highlights. PMQ and Tai Kwun in Central are walkable creative hubs with independent designers and excellent cafés, while Sham Shui Po is the city's hidden electronics and fabric district beloved by locals. December brings Christmas light installations along Harbour City and the Avenue of Stars — stunning for photography at night.
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Shenzhen, China
Maker Faire Shenzhen is held at the Shenzhen Bay area and is the world's premier hardware and maker event — arrive early for workshops and keynotes. After the event, Huaqiangbei Electronics Market (SEG Plaza multi-floor component paradise) is a 20-minute taxi ride and mandatory for anyone in tech or maker culture. End the evening at a local Cantonese restaurant in the Nanshan or Futian district before crossing back to Hong Kong the following morning.
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Vienna, Austria