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


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


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?


Inbox

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?


Mr. Vice Guy (Books)
Yakuza, sex, murder. Jake Adelstein's debut is not your typical expatriate memoir of Tokyo


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