The world is indeed filled with so many stunning places that it would be impossible to visit them all in a lifetime. From historical cities and breathtaking beaches to jaw-dropping mountains and canyons-there are plenty of things for us to see and experience.

With plenty of charming places around the globe, choosing your future destinations can be a tricky task. Especially if you wish to visit the world’s largest and most populous continent-Asia.

This diverse continent features an abundance of undiscovered places and offers something for everyone. Whether it’s gorgeous beaches you’re looking for, old temples and archeological sites or perhaps a vibrant city life, the far-east has it all. Although it’s a daunting task, let’s take a look at the selection of the most beautiful countries to visit in Asia.

Asian Countries You Must See

With close to 50 countries to choose from, planning a visit to Asia is harder than it seems. Each country offers a unique experience. Selecting the most beautiful countries to visit in Asia is, therefore, not easy. However, we narrowed it down to these seven.

1. Indonesia

Volcanoes on Java in Indonesia

The beauty of Indonesia will astonish you. According to the most recent estimates, Indonesia is made up of approximately 17,000 islands so needless to say, there is a lot to see. Sumatra, Java, Sulawesi, and Kalimantan are the biggest islands while there are also numerous smaller ones scattered around.

Its capital, Jakarta, is a metropolis and home to about 10 million people which means it’s perfect for those of you who enjoy the bustling city life. Indonesia is also home to Bali, one of the most popular tourist attractions with magnificent beaches that travelers flock to see every year.

2. Japan

Rich tradition of Japan is mirrored in its temples

Japan has so many attractions that it’s hard to pick just a few. Its rich tradition, elaborate porcelain, and fascinating temples are reason enough to visit this unique Asian country. Not to mention its famous cherry blossom that paints the cities pink. The cherry blossom season may vary from year to year so if you’re planning a trip to Japan to see these lovely trees bloom, you should check the cherry blossom forecast.

Magical cherry blossoms in the streets of Japan

Mount Fuji is an important landmark in Japan climbed by millions of people every year. But perhaps the most beautiful landmark is the Imperial Palace located in Tokyo so don’t miss out on it if you happen to visit Japan’s capital.

3. Malaysia

Breathtaking beauty of Malaysia

Batu Caves, Petronas Twin Towers, Kek Lok Si Temple, national parks, spectacular landscape, and modern luxury resorts… Malaysia truly has it all. Whether you want to explore nature and various impressive beaches or you’re more interested in visiting its modern capital Kuala Lumpur, you won’t be disappointed. Malaysia is rightly considered to be one of the most beautiful countries to visit in Asia.

The country is large and the weather differs depending on which part of Malaysia you’re in. Travel guides say that the best time to visit the west coast is from December to February. As for the east coast, where Tioman Island is located, you should plan your vacation between June and August.

Read more: Best Southeast Islands in Asia

4. South Korea

Seoul is a gigantic city

The exciting metropolis of Seoul is not nearly the only tourist attraction South Korea has to offer. While the city does attract many visitors with its contemporary architecture and Namsan Seoul Tower where you can enjoy a breathtaking view, there is so much more to see in this country.

There is the staggering Seoraksan National Park which is a popular hiking area attracting thousands of visitors every year. And let’s not forget the famous 2.8km long “sea parting”, a phenomenon that draws visitors to Jindo. South Korea is also home to various palaces, temples, national parks, and a plethora of fascinating sights to see.

5. The Philippines

The capital of the Philippines Manila is spectacular

The Philippines has a reputation for being one of the best places to go to in Asia. The heart of the country is its capital Manila, home to great hotels and many shopping malls. However, if you are more into soothing white beaches and diving, you can visit Cebu. When in the Philippines, you can also visit the unusual natural formations in Bohol named Chocolate Hills.

Safaris, wildlife, beaches dotted around more than 7,000 incredible islands, the Philippines has well earned its reputation.

6. Vietnam

Vietnam is one of the most beautiful Asian countries

Like most countries in Asia, Vietnam also has something for everyone. Culture enthusiasts and nature lovers will surely find what they’re looking for. If you want to escape the city buzz, there is the Long Beach on Phu Quoc Island, Mui Ne Beach in Phan Thiet, and plenty of others.

The old pagodas will take your breath away. There’s the 6th century Tran Quoc Pagoda in Hanoi, and the remarkable Temple of Literature built in honor of Confucius. The Ha Long Bay, the Chu Chi Tunnels, and Hoi An Ancient Town (UNESCO World Heritage Site 1999) are also among the most popular attractions.

Read more: Traveling via Air Asia – Safe or Not?

7. India

Taj Mahal is the biggest landmark of India

The second most populated country in the world (after China), is a magical place with lots of hidden gems. Apart from the well-known iconic Taj Mahal, there’s the Golden Temple in Amritsar build in 1577 which attracts both pilgrims and visitors from around the world.
India’s capital Delhi is filled with monuments, forts, and mosques that will leave you speechless. Architecture and history enthusiasts flock to the famous Ajanta and Ellora caves which have also been proclaimed UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

The Cost of Traveling to Asia

The cost of your travel to Asia can vary depending on the country, the popularity of the destination, type of accommodation that you choose, as well as your spending habits and lifestyle. That is why it is difficult to set one budget for your trip to this continent.

Cost of traveling to Asia

However, for some countries such as Vietnam and Malaysia, you should be able to get by with $40 per day per person, according to some estimates. For example, it is quite possible to find hotels at under $10 per night in Vietnam and Malaysia whereas, in Japan, you will have to spend a bit more (anywhere from around $40-$400 per night). South Korea is not as affordable as Vietnam or Malaysia but it depends on where you stay. Accommodation can range from $13 to $136 per night.

Indonesia is also quite affordable with cheap hotel rooms prices ranging from $3-$7 per night, depending on the region. Jakarta is slightly more expensive than Kuta or Ubud for example. Anyway, accommodation under $10 is possible to find.

A night in India is also likely to cost just a few dollars. The average daily budget for one person is about $29. Affordable hotels start at around $6 in the Philippines so you can probably get by just fine with a daily budget of $60. That’s not the case with South Korea though, where you’ll need about $90 per day.

Read more: Asian Destinations for Budget Travelers

Price of Food in Asia

Just like we mentioned earlier, one budget can’t fit all Asian countries but again, it’s up to you. Tasty local food is usually cheap so you can get a meal on the street for as low as $1 in Vietnam and Malaysia.

Local food in Asia

As for Indian cuisine, it is one of the most delicious in the world, and lucky for us, one of the cheapest too. You can enjoy an incredible plate of curry and bread for under a dollar! Such a meal will cost you about $0.25 (under 20 rupees) on the streets while you’ll need between $3-$5 for a fancier restaurant.

local food in India

On average, a meal in Japan will cost you between 1,000 and 3,000 yen (between $9-$27), unless you’re dining in a fancy restaurant. On the other hand, you’ll need about $5 for a meal in a cheap restaurant in South Korea.

All things considered, your Asian adventure should wait no longer! With so many spectacular attractions, you may find it hard to pick the most beautiful country in Asia to visit but that’s the thrill of the chase that only makes the trip more anticipated and worthwhile.