15 MOST Beautiful Cities in ASIA

We'll be highlighting some of the most amazing cities in Asia, the largest and most populated continent, with the most diversity between countries, languages, and cultures. When it comes to exploring, excitement and traveling, there is no better place than Asia, and its big, beautiful cities. With some of the oldest civilizations and some of the most modern progress made in the world, Asia makes the perfect blend of old and new, traditional and modern, natural and man-made. You might just take out your suitcases and prepare to pack because these cities will surely inspire you to travel and take some time to grasp the beauty of these Asian jewels. With all this said, let’s get started.

15. Kandy; Just as sweet as the name suggests, Kandy is Sri Lanka’s biggest city and also the largest religious destination as some of the oldest and most prominent Buddhist temples are situated here. The Temple of the Sacred Tooth is the city’s most popular temple and tourist attraction. Along with that, Kandy Lake, the Royal Botanical Garden, and the Hulu river waterfall are just some of the gorgeous things you’ll have the chance to visit in Kandy. This last Royal City of Sri Lanka is also included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

14. Samarkand is one of those cities’ history buffs are drawn to. Poets used to appropriately call it the “Rome of the East.” This legendary city on the famous Silk Road is over 2,500 years old and has witnessed history from Alexander the Great to the Arabic Conquest and Genghis Khan Conquest up until now. While you’re in Samarkand, you shouldn’t overlook all the attractions it has to offer. The Mausoleum of Gur-Emir, the Bibi Khanum Mosque, and the Sherdor Madrasah are just some of the most amazing architectural and historical sites you’ll be able to see there.

13. Udaipur; Located in Rajasthan, Udaipur is a true representation of India’s culture, heritage, cuisine, and natural beauty. Commonly known as the City of Lakes, the charismatic beauty of Udaipur is famous for its lake system and abundant royal palaces and fortresses, dating back to the 16th century when Indian emperor Udai Singh II made Udaipur his capital. The Royal City Palace of Udaipur is situated in the Lake Pichola, and it’s one of the largest and most beautiful palace complexes in Asia. Here you can enjoy amazing sunsets that fill the sky with deep red flames mirrored upon the tranquil lake. Also, you shouldn't overlook the Jagdish Temple, the Monsoon Palace, and the Sahelion ki Bari gardens.

12. Abu Dhabi;One of the largest cities in this region, Abu Dhabi boasts one of the fastest-growing economies and urbanism of the United Arab Emirates. Home to towering skyscrapers, luxurious hotels, breathtaking mosques, and desert parks, Abu Dhabi represents a true Asian metropolis. Influences from the West and the East made Abu Dhabi the perfect mix for everyone looking for something from both worlds. Some of the most iconic landmarks include the Al Ain Palace and Museum, Jebel Hafeet Desert Park where you can get lost in the amazing world of the Bedouins, and of course the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, an architectural masterpiece.

11. Kyoto; Kyoto is one of those cities that takes you back in time. When in Kyoto, you’re able to experience ancient Japan and see traditional tea houses, geishas and gorgeous landscapes. One of the most famous locations is the Imperial Palace, which is open to the public, so you can take a stroll there and grasp some of its beauty. Also, make sure you visit the Fushimi Inari Shrine, the Nijo Castle and the Nanzen-Ji hidden waterfall to complete your ancient Japanese tour.

10. Siem Reap; When you imagine in a Southeast Asian paradise, you will find at Siem Reap. This world-famous Buddhist city is home to the magnificent Angkor Wat, one of the largest and most mesmerizing temple complexes, which is rich in history and picturesque beauty. Apart from Angkor Wat, Siem Reap can amaze you with attractions such as the Srah Stang Royal Bath Reservoir for those who seek some peace and quiet, and the Angkor Archaeological Park for those looking for some adventurous time exploring the unimaginable beauty of Cambodian history.

9. Hoi An; Hoi An is another Asian city listed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, and that only proves how authentic the beauty of this old Vietnamese city is. Throughout history, Hoi An was the epicenter of the spice trade in the region of Southeast Asia. Because of that, you can sense various influences from the 16th century up until now. You can walk around the Old Town and see Chinese-styled shops and buildings, and on the other hand, you can party in some of the finest clubs like those you can see in Europe.

8. Hong Kong; If you’re looking for the most mesmerizing skyline in Asia, look no further than Hong Kong. Home to the most skyscrapers in the world, surpassing even Dubai, Hong Kong has a record-breaking 317 skyscrapers. You can’t go wrong with Hong Kong and its amazing wide, busy and vibrant streets and the rich, spicy flavor of Chinese markets. In some of Hong Kong’s skyscrapers, you can find restaurants that accommodate even those on a tight budget located on some of the top floors. In their philosophy, even regular people should get the chance to experience luxury.

7. Bangkok; The city of Bangkok is where the party, tradition and adventure are one. In this Thailand capital, you can meditate in the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, explore the Grand Palace and the history behind it, and wander the Weekend Market where you can try some of the best spices and most tempting foods. If you’re more of a night owl, Bangkok can amaze you with its vibrant and lively bar scene where you can let yourself go for a while. Whatever it is you’re seeking, Bangkok will definitely leave you in awe.

6. Kuala Lumpur; It’s easy to say that Kuala Lumpur is the best Malaysia has to offer. Dazzling skyscrapers like the famous Petronas Twin Towers are located here in the heart of Kuala Lumpur. You shouldn’t miss the opportunity to climb to the glass bridge that connects the Petronas Towers as the view is something you’ll never forget. Just as you’ll enjoy Kuala Lumpur’s city life, you’ll enjoy the adventures in the 400-year-old Batu Caves, one of the favorite tourist places.

5. Chiang Mai; Chiang Mai is a true wonder that is getting more and more popular each year. It’s consistently included in numerous lists of Asia’s finest cities. Surrounded by mountains and lush, green nature, the peaceful city of Chiang Mai is a perfect spot for those seeking a spiritual journey and relaxation in true natural beauty. Some of the most mesmerizing attractions that impress every visitor in Chiang Mai include the Bo Sang Umbrella Village, the Old City Wiang Kum Kam, and the majestic Wat Phra Singh Buddhist Temple, which is one of the oldest temples in Chiang Mai.

4. Seoul; Situated in a mountainous region, Seoul is surrounded by fantastic nature and lush forests, while the center of the city is a mix of traditional palaces and village houses and modern buildings, which makes it especially unique. An atmosphere of affluence and energy radiates throughout the shiny and illuminated Seoul streets, home to some of the world’s best restaurants, clubs and hotels. Make sure you pay a visit to the Gyeongbokgung Palace to truly experience Korean beauty.

3. Taipei; This Taiwan capital is one of those cities where you can sense that exciting fusion of cultures. With influences from Chinese, Japanese, American and Southeast Asian cultures, Taipei is considered to be a true Asian metropolis. Take a stroll through the city each day, and you’ll never know where you’re going to end up. From Dihua Street to the Longshan Temple, Taipei is packed with some of the world’s most beautiful and breathtaking landmarks.

2. Singapore; You can’t make a list of beautiful Asian cities without mentioning Singapore. This stunning city is not only one of the cleanest cities in the world, but it’s also made for indulging the senses, making it simply impossible not to find something to enjoy. You can visit the Gardens by the Bay, Little India and the Arab Street, where you’ll find the most tempting restaurants and cocktail bars. Knowing Singapore has a strong culture of parties and nightlife, you’re destined to yield to those temptations as well. The historic side of Singapore also has its charms. Journey through the Changi Museum and Singapore’s history during the Japanese occupation. And the National Museum of Singapore where you can experience Singapore from its early days up until recent years is said to be one of the most memorable experiences around.

1. Tokyo; Finally, we’ve reached the number one city on our list. The pick was very hard to make, but Tokyo definitely deserves the number one spot on our list, and you’ll soon understand why. As the capital of the “Land of the Rising Sun,” Tokyo sets a high standard for other Asian cities with its balance of traditional and modern architecture, many tourist attractions and 23 unique wards. It is not only one of the most populous cities, but also has the largest metropolitan area in the world. That being said, it has plenty of great places to visit as well, such as the Tokyo Skytree with its stunning view of the entire city, the Tokyo Tower, one of the many shrines dedicated to gods, or the Akihabara, which is a district dedicated to anime and manga.

There’s also the Harajuku, an area that focuses on many aspects of modern pop culture. Regardless of where you’re going, it's one of the most beautiful places you can visit in Asia, and according to Travel and Leisure magazine, one of the most beautiful cities in the world too. The average life expectancy of people living in Asia outranks the United States and Europe, and the countries with the highest life expectancy are Japan, Singapore, Taiwan, and South Korea, so maybe by visiting these countries, you will figure out how they do it.