With more than 60% of the world's population living in Asia, it's a cultural Mecca well worth visiting for anyone who wants to find themselves immersed in a world beyond their own. If you've grown up in North America your entire life, then going to Asia will introduce you to a new way of life.
You'll witness sights beyond anything you can imagine. It's a beautiful continent: so many different countries, lifestyles, and tropical paradises across all kinds of terrain. Due to the sheer size, it would be impossible to list every place that is worth visiting, but we've narrowed it down to ten of the prettiest destinations in Asia.
10 Boracay Island
Boracay Island is a beautiful place located only a short distance away from Manila, the capital of the Philippines. It's an extraordinary and lovely place to vacation. Not only does it have a stunning white sand beach, but it has nine different beaches and fifteen dive sites for you to experience.
Bear witness to the aquatic life underwater in the island's crystal-clear turquoise waters. Boracay is home to a vibrant nightlife, and it's not too expensive either. They have accommodations for a variety of budgets. If you're a fan of seafood, there are more than twenty-three varieties on the island, and it's always fresh.
9 Mount Fuji
As the tallest mountain in Japan, Mount Fuji is a spiritual and cultural icon in the country. It is a must-see for visitors, both if you enjoy hiking and if you don't. For people who don't enjoy climbing, there is plenty to do around the mountain's base.
Public wi-fi is accessible from every point around the area for people to send selfies and videos from their tour. Mount Fuji is a staple in Japanese literature. It is considered to be one of three Holy mountains in the country, and the Japanese have worshipped various deities represented by the mountains for centuries.
8 Kerala Backwaters
Kerala is one of the most stunning places you can visit in India. The area is known for its heavenly vistas and untouched wildlife. The Kerela Backwaters are a must-see if you're in the area. Rent a houseboat with an official guide to take you on tour down the winding canals lined with palm trees.
Witness the plentiful wildlife and foliage. You can dine on Indian cuisine and even drink alcohol. Plus, if you're able to afford a houseboat rental, you can spend the night on the canal. If you're on a budget, they offer half-day tours to accommodate.
7 Taj Mahal
Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan built the Taj Mahal as a tribute to his favorite wife. It is one of the wonders of the world for a reason. Every single square inch of the mausoleum was constructed for a purpose under scrutiny. The entirety of the building is constructed from a high-quality, rare, marble.
It took more than twenty years to complete, and it would have cost more than $800 million to make with today's conversion rates. Every year, more than twice the population of Agra (where it is located) visit the area. The most popular photo people take is of the building outside the main gate.
6 Halong Bay
Halong Bay is a twice-recognized World Heritage site due to its astounding aesthetic value. It is entirely made by nature without being altered by the artificial touch of humankind. The exquisite beauty of the landscape is a result of thousands of years of limestone chemical reactions and untouched waters.
The best way to experience the bay is through a cruise. You can live like a fisherman for a few days on a boat trip through one of the most photographic places in the world. You'll feel refreshed and reenergized, and perhaps disappointed when you have to leave it behind.
5 Raja Ampat Islands
The Raja Ampat Islands is a tranquil vacation spot that secluded and something of a hidden gem in Southeast Asia. Unlike many other tropical paradises around the world, this one won't be infested with tourists. You'll be able to claim some peace.
It's an excellent place to visit if you're fond of diving with its clear waters and untouched coral reefs. There are more than 200 different diving spots, and they're riddled with vibrant species and fish. If you prefer activities on land, you can go hiking through the jungles and spot birds of paradise and a wide variety of other animals.
4 Luang Prabang
Luang Prabang is a magical gem of a city located in the country of Laos. It is protected as a World Heritage site. Walk the lengthy city streets, visit the night market, take a slow boat ride, and peruse at your leisure in the city.
It's well-kept, clean, and bursting at the seams with rich lore and culture. It is an architectural marvel with lots to see so be prepared to spend at least a couple of days here. The food is excellent too, with plenty of local eateries you won't find anywhere else. If you're a fan of animals, there is a well-known elephant sanctuary you should visit!
3 Tiger's Nest Temple
Most tourists visit Bhutan specifically for the chance to visit this famous monastery, Tiger's Nest Temple. The building got its name for Guru Rinpoche, who supposedly landed here on his flight on a tigress from Tibet.
Initially, it was just a cave where Guru Rinpoche spent time meditating to rid himself and the place of evil. The monastery has stood for many years and is a tourist hotspot. If you plan on making the hike to the temple, which you will have to if you want to get close and take the best photos, go early and book a guide if you can to avoid the crowds.
2 Arashiyama
The Arashiyama bamboo grove is one of the only places in the world where you can truly immerse yourself between bamboo stalks. It's a view unlike any other, and you'll undoubtedly want to take many photographs while meandering through the grove. It's a zen spot, perfect for sitting, relaxing, and enjoying the tranquility.
If you enjoy journaling, this is an excellent spot to get some writing in. Aside from taking a leisurely walk through Arashiyama, there are many temples, surrounded by gorgeous maple trees, for you to meander through. Nearby is Kameyama-Koen Park, another tourist hotspot because of the various animals you can sometimes spot here.
1 Great Wall Of China
The Great Wall of China is more than 4,000 miles long. It is even visible from space. It is also one of the most incredible man-made structures in the world. Many people have the Great Wall on their bucket list, and why wouldn't you?
It is a marvel and a feat many can not imagine conquering. If you have the chance to visit, you'll find it is not only a tribute to the rich Chinese culture and history but a truly stunning piece of architecture. You'll find plenty of incredible photo opportunities.