Eight Places Certified Bookworms Should Visit for World Book Day

Tour these renowned authors' hometowns

SINGAPORE, April 17, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Books can take one to new and exciting places—completely new worlds, even. This World Book Day (23 April 2019), Agoda highlights eight places to go for a literary adventure. Trace the roots of these famous authors by stopping by their hometowns -- some of which have inspired their most seminal works.

Here are some must-visit spots for book-lovers roaming around Asia...

1. Kobe, Japan
Literary Hero: Haruki Murakami
Notable works: "Kafka on the Shore" and "1Q84" available from Shinchosha
Must-see attractions: Ikuta Shrine, Arima Onsen, Akashi-Kaikyo Bridge

Murakami grew up in Kobe, where a few of his stories, such as his debut novel "Hear the Wind Sing", are set. Murakami's works have surrealist elements, often with melancholic themes which in some ways, is reflective of the quiet beauty to be found in the many serene shrines and breathtaking nature scenery in the small seaside city. Internalize the relaxing minimalist side of Kobe when you stay at Arimakoyado Hataya Ryokan.

2. Camarines Norte, Philippines
Literary Hero: Ricky Lee
Notable works: "Para kay B" available from Philippine Writers' Studio Foundation
Must-see attractions: Calaguas Islands, Apuao Grande Island, Bagasbas Beach

More than his novel "Para kay B," Ricky Lee's body of work encompasses screenwriting and playwriting. He has worked with revered Filipino directors like Lino Brocka and Ishmael Bernal and has even published a screenplay manual called "Trip to Quiapo" which has since been a staple resource for communication colleges in the Philippines.

Visit Lee's hometown of Camarines Norte in the central Bicol region of the Philippines and enjoy its beautiful beaches like those on Apuao Grande Island and the Calaguas group of islands. Keep comfy by making One Platinum Hotel your home base while in the area.

If you're in the Americas, head to...

3. New York, USA
Literary Hero: Jenny Han
Notable works: "To All the Boys I've Loved Before" available from Simon & Schuster
Must-see attractions: Empire State Building, Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, Broadway

Though Han originally came from Virginia, her time in New York shaped her career as a young adult fiction writer. Book the cozy Jun New York Midtown III apartment, and feel right at home when you take a break from all of that sight-seeing.