COVER
Japan Reaches Out (Asia / Japan)
At home its economy is floundering, but overseas its growing soft power is enabling Japan to make new friendships and forge a reputation as a responsible world leader
ASIA
Rising From the Rubble of the Sichuan Quake (China)
Six months after the Sichuan quake, a building frenzy signals a new future. But will survivors be allowed to face the past?
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Southern Discomfort (Movies)
Thailand's insurgency gets stark treatment
Lifting the Veil (Books)
Get a rare glimpse into the lives of Iranian youth
BRIEFING
The Moment
11|15|08: Pooneryn
ESSAY
Learning Curve
Asia presents complex challenges for U.S. President-elect Barack Obama. Here is an agenda for him
GLOBAL ADVISER
Paragliding, Himalayan Style (Diversions)
Hold on tight. It's paragliding season in the northern Himalayas
Birding For a Cause in Cambodia (The Great Outdoors)
A village on the northern plains of Cambodia are seeing the benefits of being a bird-watching paradise — and so are the birds
Burnt Out on Bali? Head to Lombok (Check In)
Those who are looking to escape the crowds of Indonesia's famous isle can hop next door to Lombok, where hotel Tugu Lombok caters to a mellower set
One Night in Kuala Lumpur (TIME Traveler)
Let savvy residents tell you how to make the most of the Malaysian capital by night