Asia is home to some of the world’s most incredible cities. And as the largest continent on Earth, you better believe it has no shortage of must-see attractions that will have any avid jetsetter itching to book a flight. So, grab your passport and let these travel wish list-worthy sights inspire you to pack your bags for The Orient.
The Great Wall of China, China
Spanning approximately 13,170 miles, the Great Wall of China is one of Asia’s most notable tourist stops. Constructed in 7th century, the Great Wall of China was built to protect Chinese states and empires from invasion. Today, over 10 million travelers visit the impressive structure each year.
Taj Mahal, India
Located on the south bank of the Yamuna River, the Taj Mahal is a globally-recognized landmark that was commissioned in 1632 by Emperor Shah Jahan. The great building was built as a tomb for the emperor's favorite wife, Mumtaz Mahal, and her tomb still acts as the centerpiece for the must-see tourist attraction today. A designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, visitors will also find lush gardens, an opulent guesthouse and beautiful mosque await them within.
Mount Fuji, Japan
Everyone’s favorite active volcano, Mount Fuji is located about an hour southwest of Tokyo, Japan. Gargantuan in size and adored by travelers, Mount Fuji stands over 12,000 feet tall, making it the highest mountain in the country. Visitors can catch a glimpse of the natural wonder by taking a train ride from Tokyo to Osaka where the best view of the mountain can be seen from the Shin-Fuji Station. Those looking to observe the Mount Fuji from a more serene setting can visit Fuji Five Lake, a region near the northern face of the mountain with tourist attractions, hot springs and climbing options.
Angkor Wat, Cambodia
Travelers who find themselves in Southeast Asia won’t want to miss a visit to Angkor Wat, the largest religious complex in the world. This impressive temple stands on 402 acres of land and dates back to the 12th-century Khmer Empire. Today, an image of the temple is donned on Cambodia’s national flag and it remains a place of beauty and wonder among those who visit and admire the site from afar.
Shwedagon Pagoda, Myanmar
The Shwedagon Pagoda, aka the Great Dagon Pagoda or the Golden Pagoda, is one of Myanmar’s most-visited attractions due to its historical and religious significance. Dating back thousands of years and standing nearly 360 feet tall, the Shwedagon Pagoda is said to contain strands of Buddha’s hair along with other holy relics. A glamorous sight, the pagoda is covered in hundreds of gold plates and is adorned with approximately 4,531 white diamonds, the largest of which is 72 carats.
Terracotta Army, China
Intended to protect Qin Shi Huang, the first Emperor of China, in the afterlife, the Terracotta Army consists of 150 cavalry horses, 520 horses, 130 chariots and 8,000 soldiers. The terracotta statues were buried with the Emperor in 209 B.C. and visitors can observe the scene from Emperor Qinshihuang’s Mausoleum Site Museum which allows travelers to linger on multiple walkways just above the burial ground.
Burj Khalifa, Dubai
Soaring 2,772 feet, Dubai’s Burj Khalifa is the tallest structure in the world. Construction on this massive skyscraper began in 2004 and was completed in 2008, catching the eye of tourists worldwide. Today, visitors can enjoy views of the monstorous tower from the comfort of the spacious Burj Khalifa Park or pose for a photo at Dubai Fountain before heading inside to soak up the views at one of the two observatory decks or grabbing a bite to eat a local restaurant.
Gardens by the Bay, Singapore
Those heading to central Singapore won't want to miss their chance to experience Gardens by the Bay, an extravagant nature park sprawling 250 acres in the heart of the city. Gardens by the Bay is an outdoor recreation hotspot and is divided into three sections: Bay Central Garden, Bay East Garden and Bay South Garden. Special attractions inside the park include a cloud forest, flower dome, supertree grove, art sculptures and a children’s center.
Grand Palace, Bangkok
Dazzling and spectacular, Bangkok’s Grand Palace is like nothing you’ve ever seen before. Built in 1782, the Grand Palace is colorful and bright with intricate details, impressive statues and stunning architecture. Beyond the gates wait 35 gorgeous structures, landscaped gardens and sprawling courtyards. The most popular sight within the Palace is the world-famous Emerald Buddah which was meticulously hand-carved from a single block of jade and is traditionally only accessible to the king.
Borobudur, Indonesia
Dating to the 8th century, Borobudur is the world’s largest Buddhist monument and a popular UNESCO World Heritage Site. The massive temple, measuring 400 by 400 feet, is decorated with 2,672 stone carvings and 504 Buddha statues, making it a sight to be seen.
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