A 15-minute hike will take you up Cluj-Napoca's most scenic observation point, the Cetatuia Hill (just across the river from the Old Town). The hill's park-like environment draws in locals and visitors in-the-know, and a plethora of cafes offer sit-down snack and/or drink breaks.

The Xiqu Centre building, inspired by the design of traditional Chinese lanterns, seems to invite you inside with its facade resembling a futuristic interpretation of stage curtains opening. 1,073 guests can enjoy Xiqu exhibitions and the traditional Chinese opera in the Grand Theatre, while the Tea House Theatre holds 200 seats. Guided tours in different languages can also be booked.

One of the Hoi An Ancient Town's most emblematic structures, the Japanese Covered Bridge dates back to the early 17th century, when it was first constructed by the Japanese community as a link to the Chinese quarters of Hoi An. Much of the original ornamental wood carvings remain preserved, and so do the sculptures of two dogs and two monkeys on either end of the bridge. Although the exact reasons for this particular animal selection aren't clearly identifiable, some explanations include the sacred status of the two in Japanese culture and birth years of Japanese emperors predominantly falling on either dog or monkey. Inside the bridge, there is a tiny temple of the northern god Tran Vo Bac De, who is believed to hold powers of controlling the weather. The Japanese Covered Bridge is included on the list of attractions one can visit on an Ancient Town Entry Ticket.

The green oasis of tranquillity that is Alexandru Borza Botanical Garden lies just outside Cluj's Old Town. Inside, a multitude of flora species are on display, from tropical flowers to Nordic mosses sprawling over rock arrangements. There is an on-site museum of plant kingdom curiosities and even a compact Japanese Garden.