Asia is a unique continent. You can find natural wonders, history, and culture, learn and even live the way people lived hundreds of years ago. You can also find the most modern and futuristic architectural masterpieces and can get a little insight of what will our planet’s future cities will look like.
For first time travelers, Asia is an understandably overwhelming destination, with millions of sights to see throughout its 48 countries.
We've collected the must-sees where you can get insight the past and future and experience these countries unique rituals, heritage and culture.
Ready to explore? Let's go!
1. Kyoto, Japan - Fushimi Inari-Taisha Shrine
Japan is on almost everyone's bucket list and it's easy to see why. One of their most famous historically and culturally significant sight is the Fushimi Inari-Taisha Shrine located in the beautiful city of Kyoto.
The shrine's earliest structures were built in 711 and it sits at the base of a mountain. You can have a nice afternoon filled with history, art, and nature. Because of its popularity, this sight is often croweded. Traveling to Japan on a tour is one of the best ways to explore - find hidden pathways and gain unique insights from your guide.
2. Vietnam & China - Ban Gioc–Detian Falls
Photo credit: Jella, Asiana Circus
These beautiful waterfalls sit on the border of Vietnam and China. You can visit from either country. It's an especially great opportunity to see Vietnam's beautiful natural sights in a less touristy way; and don't miss the falls in the nearby Babe National park.
Nothing makes your day better than bamboo rafting through a rainbow and mist at the bottom of a huge waterfall. The best time to visit is during rainy season, when both falls will be filled with water and the surrounding nature will have lush greens.
3. Cambodia - Angkor Wat
Angkor Wat is one of the most important archaeological sites in South-East Asia. Since its rediscovery in the 1800s, this iconic monument has been visited by thousands of people every day. Doesn't matter which season you visit Angkor Wat, you will face the crowds of people when entering the site. However, once you are in, all the hassle seems to disappear. Not the crowds nor the heat can diminish Angkor's magnificent atmosphere.
All the magic this place has to offer will sweep off your feet. The ancient temples that were built in 12th century, the long galleries of detailed bas-relief carvings will give you a cool shelter from the ever burning sun and will flew you back in time. The Angkor Wat temples are not just an UNESCO World Heritage site but also make up the largest religious monument in the world - making it a definite must visit on your Asia tour.
4. Bali, Indonesia - Pura Tirta Empul
Ubud is without question the most culturally alive part of Bali. Here you can find temples, traditional Balinese dance and theatrical performances every day. You can talk to Holy men, and meet with the wonderful and welcoming Balinese people who practice their religion and work hard every day to keep their beautiful cultural heritage alive.
There most mythical and significant temple is the Pura Tirta Empul and its Holy water. This temple has a unique bathing structure which famous for its holy spring water, where people can go for ritual purification. It is believed that bathing or drinking from the water will heal you and give you good luck.
Even if you don't wish to take a bath this temple will be one of the most spiritually filled places you visit in Asia.
5. Singapore - Gardens by the Bay
If you want to see how cities in the future will look like, head to Singapore. The cities offers a nice blend of past and future. One of Singapore's most unique architectural pieces is the Gardens by the Bay, where you can easily spend a day discovering its futuristic ways and get an amazing view of the city too.
This place offers entertainment for the whole family on its sprawling 250-acres. You can find themed gardens, scenic walkways, conservatories, a flower market, and the most exciting of them all the elevated Skyway. Best if you visit just before sunset because while this place is definitely a one of a kind at any time of day, it will leave you absolutely breathless once the sun goes down and the lights turn on.
Find you next tour to Asia from over 2000 options! Discover these and many more amazing sights.
About the Author
Jella is the creator of Asiana Circus a geeky lifestyle & travel blog. She describes herself as a creative weirdo who loves cinema, writing, reading, all forms of arts really, neuroscience, astronomy. She'd been a full-time traveler since 2015.
