COVER
The End of California? Dream On! (United States)
The Golden State has fought the status quo since its birth 160 years ago. It celebrates failure. It is a magnet for innovation. Its obituary has been posted time and again. But even amid a particularly rough chapter in the state's history, the nation's future is being written in California. A special report
ASIA
A Rivalry on the Roof of the World
In the Himalayas, India and China are needling each other. Welcome to what may be the century's most important contest
PEOPLE
Han Han: China's Literary Bad Boy (Profile)
Wildly popular novelist Han Han is the rebellious, potty-mouthed voice of a generation of disaffected Chinese youth. Why won't the authorities shut him up?
LETTERS
Inbox
GLOBAL BUSINESS
China: The Next Alternative Energy Powerhouse? (Energy)
China is fast becoming one of the world's largest alternative-energy markets. But will foreign firms be welcomed?
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Mr. Vice Guy (Books)
Yakuza, sex, murder. Jake Adelstein's debut is not your typical expatriate memoir of Tokyo
GLOBAL ADVISER
Middle Eastern Promise (On Show)
A Paris exhibition showcases exciting new talent
10 Reasons to Visit Yanesen (TIME Traveler)
The winding lanes of Yanesen are a hit with young Tokyoites in search of a slower pace of life
Lots of Interest (Diversions)
For the visitor, London's smaller auction houses offer hours of browsing pleasure
Try a Little Grass (Curtain Raiser)
Hong Kong's Clockenflap is a festival with film, art and ecological components as well as music