Asia is one of the largest continents in terms of size and population. Therefore, there’s no shortage of things to see and explore in this part of the world. From the fascinating temples of Japan to the scenic rice fields of Bali and the bustling cities of Vietnam, here’s a look at six destinations in Asia you must visit.
Japan
Japan is one of those destinations in Asia you should see at least once. It’s famous for its rich history and heritage, ancient castles, beautiful temples, delicious food, and charming cities. Covered in forests and mountains, it is also a haven for nature lovers.
Seeing Japan’s temples and shrines should be on top of your list. These gorgeous palaces have elaborate facades with manicured gardens and tranquil koi ponds. If you’re in Tokyo, visit Sensoji Temple in the historic Asakusa district. In Kyoto, you should not miss the Kinkakuji or the Golden Pavilion. The temple’s fascinating golden facade is a sight to behold.
Japan looks even more beautiful during the cherry blossom season, also known as the Sakura Festival. During this time, Japanese cherry blossom trees are in full bloom, covering the country with bright pink and white flowers. It can be impossible to predict when these flowers will bloom. And if they do, it will only take two weeks. During this time, the streets of Japan are full of locals and visitors enjoying outdoor picnics.
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India
India is another country in Asia that’s famous for its rich ancient history and vibrant culture. While travelling to India can be overwhelming, especially for first timers, there are many ways to make your holiday as comfortable as possible. You will find plenty of luxury vacation options in India, ideal for those who want a convenient and comfortable way of exploring the country.
While many visitors to India would head straight to see the Taj Mahal, the country’s most iconic landmark, you’ll find many other places worth seeing. Visit Jaipur, also known as the Pink City, home to opulent temples and forts, such as the City Palace and the Amber Fort.
If you want to escape the bustling streets of India, visit Goa, India’s smallest state and famous for its beautiful beaches. Here, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to relax. You will also find some historical attractions to explore, including the old churches built during the Portuguese colonisation.
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China
With over 5,000 years of history, China has one of the world’s most impressive civilisations. Expect to see several historical sites on your visit, including the Great Wall and the Forbidden City. Both are UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Aside from its history, China is also famous for its varied natural landscapes, from the legendary Yellow Mountains to the scenic Li River in Guilin. Zhangjiajie National Park, believed to be the inspiration for the Avatar movie, is also a must-see.
The diverse cuisine is another reason why you should visit China. Foodies will have plenty of opportunities to sample delectable Chinese street foods in the streets of Beijing and Shanghai. Among the foods to try are Shanghainese soup dumplings, roast duck, spicy hotpot in Chengdu, and Guilin’s rice noodles.
Bali
The majestic island of Bali is one of those destinations you should visit in Asia. It offers a variety of things suitable for different tastes and preferences, from attractive beaches and lush rice fields to the vibrant culture and incredible temples. Most visitors to Bali spend their time on a cruise, as it’s one of the best ways to discover many other islands in Indonesia in one trip.
Many would associate Bali as a beach destination, but it’s also rich in cultural offerings. It’s different from the rest of Indonesia, and the Balinese were able to preserve their unique heritage. The best way to discover Bali’s local culture is to explore the local markets or witness one of their festivals and ceremonies.
Bali’s many beautiful beaches are a haven for water sports, such as diving, snorkelling, surfing, and more. There are also island-hopping cruises in Bali that takes you to nearby Indonesian islands with the opportunity to snorkel and discover the fascinating underwater marine life.
Vietnam
Vietnam has a rich history dating back thousands of years, but that’s not the only reason to visit the country. It is rich in natural beauty and is home to friendly locals. Visiting Vietnam is also an opportunity to sample authentic Vietnamese cuisine, which is delicious, fresh, and healthy.
You’ll discover much of Vietnam’s history through its various historical sites, museums, and ancient architecture. By exploring these places, you’ll better understand Vietnam and how its history shaped the country into what they are today. While in Ho Chi Minh, visit the War Remnants Museum, Independence Palace, and Chu Chi Tunnel to learn more about the country’s colourful history.
If you want to discover the local food scene, Hanoi is the perfect place to visit. Here, you can sample the tastiest noodle dish called pho. You should also try the famous egg coffee, which consists of coffee, egg yolks, sugar, and condensed milk.
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Borneo
Borneo is an island in Southeast Asia shared by three countries, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Brunei. But what makes the island interesting to visit is its incredible natural landscapes and fascinating wildlife. Wildlife lovers who want to explore a unique destination in Asia should visit Borneo.
The orangutans are Borneo’s highlights. Many visitors would visit the island to see the orangutans, the largest arboreal mammal, which spend most of their time in trees. You can visit a rehabilitation centre in the Malaysian part of the island, which aims to protect the young orangutans that survived in the wild.
The Kinabatangan River, also in the Malaysian part of the island, is another beautiful place to visit in Borneo. It’s a protected natural rainforest where visitors can explore and see extraordinary wildlife like pygmy elephants, proboscis monkeys, macaques, and orangutans. Avid birders can enjoy birdwatching in the river that has become a habitat for exotic bird species, including hornbills and kingfishers.
