Binan is one of the three cities in the province of Laguna, about 40 kilometres south of Manila on the island of Luzon. It started as a Spanish colonial settlement in 1571 and grew into one of the country's major industrial and export processing zones, but the old town centre still holds centuries-old landmarks that recall its past.
The city sits on a mostly flat plain bordered by Laguna de Bay to the north and east, with the slopes of Mount Makiling visible to the south. That proximity to both Manila and the mountains gives Binan an unusual range — you can explore colonial-era stone buildings in the morning, eat at a local carinderia at noon, and be hiking a volcanic trail by the afternoon.
Binan is not a typical tourist destination, but it rewards the curious. The historical landmarks around the town plaza, the waterfalls and hot springs scattered across Laguna province, and the straightforward warmth of the people make it a worthwhile stop for anyone heading south from Manila.