My sister and I are planning to spend one week each in Tokyo and Kyoto, Japan. What points of interest are must-sees?

Two weeks might seem like a lot, but for cities the size of Tokyo and Kyoto, especially given their histories and culture, you'll have to squeeze a lot into a little time.

Tokyo is the country's political and economic center, but a visit to Asakusa district will give you a feel for a more traditional Japan. You'll see the city's most famous and popular temple, Sensoji, which was built in the seventh century, and the Asakusa Shrine. Both are near Nakamise Shopping Street. Also, make sure to see Imperial Palace and tour the gardens for free.

In Kyoto, which has more than 1,000 temples and shrines, you should visit Kinkakuji (Beautiful Golden Temple) and Kiyomizu-dera Temple. You'll get a great view of the city from Kiyomizu's wooden terrace.

Afterward, visit Jishu Shrine, dedicated to the deity of love, behind the main hall. There are two rocks in front of the shrine. It's been said that walking unaided from one to the other with your eyes closed will bring you luck in finding love.

For details on hotels, attractions and events, check the Japan National Tourist Organization site, www.jnto.go.jp/eng.

A friend will be visiting Beijing. Where can he find drinking water?

Because tap water in China is undrinkable, bottled water is readily available from most markets, restaurants and hotel shops for about 3 yuan (about 40 cents) per bottle.

Some hotels have dispensers that deliver hot and cold water, or they may have a hot pot, which you can use to boil tap water before drinking. Also, as in Mexico, many hotels will have bottled water in guest rooms.

As a precaution, your friend should also bring along Imodium, or any similar anti-diarrheal product.