About Wade and Asia Unpacked

The best meal I’ve ever had cost $2 from a street cart in Xiamen that I almost walked past. That’s when I realized the real Asia isn’t in guidebooks—it’s in the moments between destinations.

Hi, I’m Wade 👋 Welcome to Asia Unpacked, a space where I share the stories, flavors, and adventures that make traveling across Asia unforgettable.

As a Chinese American who speaks Mandarin and a bit of Japanese, I’ve been lucky enough to explore 6 countries so far—and each trip has taught me something new about how culture, food, and people shape the way we experience a place. I’ve learned to spot the little details that tourists often miss and translate them into tips and stories that help you feel like an insider, not just a visitor.

What makes Asia Unpacked different?
I don’t just write about the must-sees you’ll find in every guidebook. Instead, I share the moments that make a trip unforgettable—the kind of things you stumble on when you slow down and look closer. Like the dumpling shop in Shanghai where the owner still hand-rolls wrappers at 5 a.m., or the quiet bamboo path in Kyoto where I walked for an hour without seeing another tourist. And because I travel with both curiosity and a budget, I’ll show you how to enjoy these experiences without breaking the bank.

This blog is more than just stories—it’s about building a community of travelers who want to explore deeper, connect with locals, and discover the hidden gems that make Asia so vibrant. Whether you’re planning your first trip or your tenth, you’ll find guides, tips, and insights here to help you travel smarter and experience more.

So grab your backpack (and maybe an empty stomach 😋). Let’s unpack Asia, one adventure at a time.