50 Famous Landmarks In Asia You HAVE To See!

This list of 50 famous landmarks in Asia include temples, ancient structures, natural wonders and modern marvels.

Famous Asian Landmarks

Most Famous Landmarks Of Asia

Asia is a vast and diverse continent, home to some of the most famous landmarks in the world. From ancient temples to towering modern skyscrapers, Asia is a treasure trove of architectural wonders. Here are just 50 of the most famous Asian landmarks in this amazing region.

1. The Great Wall of China (China)

This is perhaps the most famous Asian landmark – You can even see the Great Wall of China from space! The wall stretches for over 21,000 kilometers (13,000 miles) and was built to protect China from invading armies.

The Great Wall Of China is perhaps the biggest landmark in Asia

The Great Wall of China is an UNESCO World Heritage Site, and millions of tourists flock to China each year to visit this iconic landmark.

2. Angkor Wat Temples (Cambodia)

Angkor Wat is the largest and most famous of the temples at the Angkor Ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Cambodia. The temple was originally built as a Hindu temple, but it was later converted into a Buddhist temple.

The Angkor Site are some of the most exciting ancient ruins you can explore when in Cambodia, and also some of the most mysterious Asian landmarks.

The Angkor Wat Temples are famous landmarks in Asia

Angkor Wat is an impressive sight, with its towering spires and ornate carvings. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Cambodia, and it is also featured on the Cambodian flag. I've now visited Angkor twice in the last 20 years, and still not managed to write a blog post about them. Third time lucky perhaps!

3. Taj Mahal (India)

The world famous Taj Mahal is a must see when visiting India. This beautiful mausoleum was built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his late wife, Mumtaz Mahal.

The inspiring Tak Mahal in India

The Taj Mahal is made of white marble and is adorned with intricate carvings and patterns. It is one of the new Seven Wonders of the World, and it is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site

4. Borobudur Temple (Indonesia)

Borobudur Temple is located in Central Java, Indonesia. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest Buddhist temples in the world.

Borobudur Temple - Amazing landmarks of Asia

The temple was built in the 9th century and it is decorated with intricate carvings and reliefs. Borobudur Temple is a popular tourist destination, and it is also one of the most photographed landmarks in Indonesia.

5. Mount Fuji (Japan)

Mount Fuji is the highest mountain in Japan, and it is an iconic landmark that can be seen from miles away. It is not considered to be an active volcano, as it has been dormant for over 300 years.

Mount Fuji in Japan is an iconic natural landmark

Mount Fuji is a popular tourist destination, and many people climb to the summit each year. The mountain is also featured on the Japanese flag, and is one of the most beautiful natural landmarks in Asia.

6. Himeji Castle (Japan)

Himeji Castle is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Hyogo Prefecture, Japan. It is one of the most well-preserved castles in the world and is also known for its white exterior, which makes it appear to be beautiful ‘white castle' from far away.

Himeji Castle dates back to 1333, making it one of the oldest castles in Japan. It is also one of the most popular tourist attractions in Japan, and it has been featured in several movies and television shows over the years.

7. The Forbidden City (China)

The Forbidden City, also known as the Palace Museum, is a popular attraction located in Beijing, China. This former imperial palace was built during the Ming Dynasty and it covers over 180 acres.

The Forbidden City in China - An Amazing Landmark

The Forbidden City complex is made up of 980 buildings spread out over 720,000 square meters (178 acres). It has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in China.

8. Bagan (Myanmar)

Bagan is an ancient city located in Myanmar. It was the capital of the Kingdom of Pagan from the 9th to 13th centuries, and it is home to over 2,000 temples and pagodas.

The Bagan Temples of Myanmar

Bagan is a popular tourist destination, and it is one of the most beautiful places in Myanmar. The temples and pagodas have been well preserved, and they are one of the most ancient structures in Southeast Asia.

While the temples of Bagan are the most famous monuments in Myanmar (Burma), the temple complex has some questionable reconstruction work so it has not been granted UNESCO World Heritage status at this stage.

9. Ha Long Bay (Vietnam)

Ha Long Bay is a picturesque destination located in North Vietnam. It is best known for its stunning limestone cliffs, which rise up from the water and create small islands that are filled with caves and grottoes.

Ha Long Bay is a natural wonder of Asia

Ha Long Bay has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Vietnam. In addition to its natural beauty, Ha Long Bay is also home to a wide variety of wildlife, making it an ideal place for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

10. Chocolate Hills (Philippines)

The Chocolate Hills are located in the province of Bohol, Philippines. There are around 1,776 of these hills spread out over an area of 50 square kilometers. The hills are made of limestone and they range in height from 30 to 120 meters.

Chocolate Hills (Philippines)

The Chocolate Hills get their name from the fact that they turn brown during the dry season, making them look like giant pieces of chocolate. They are a popular tourist attraction in the Philippines, and many people come here to hike and explore the area. In addition to its natural beauty, the Chocolate Hills also have a rich history and culture that attract visitors from around the world.

11. Ban Gioc Falls (Vietnam)

Ban Gioc Falls is located on the border of Vietnam and China. It is one of the tallest waterfalls in Asia, and it is a popular tourist destination for those who love nature and outdoor activities.

Ban Gioc Falls (Vietnam) - Impressive Natural Landmark

The waterfall is formed by the Quay Son River, and it plunges down into a gorge below. Ban Gioc Falls is a beautiful natural landmark, and it is one of the most visited landmarks in nature in Vietnam.

12. Kiyomizu-dera Temple (Japan)

Kiyomizu-dera Temple is a Buddhist temple located in Kyoto, Japan. It was founded in 778, and it is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Kyoto.

The temple is best known for its wooden stage that extends out from the main hall, which offers views of the city below. Kiyomizu-dera Temple has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it is one of the most important cultural landmarks in Japan. In addition to its historical and cultural significance, Kiyomizu-dera Temple is also known for its beautiful gardens and architecture.

13. The Petronas Towers (Malaysia)

This feat of modern engineering, architecture, and construction is one of the most impressive landmarks in Asia. The Petronas Towers, located in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, were the tallest buildings in the world from 1998 to 2004.

Petronas Twin Towers of Malaysia

The towers are made up of 88 floors each, and they are connected by a sky bridge that is located on the 41st floor. The Petronas Towers are a popular tourist destination, and they offer stunning views of the city and surrounding area. In addition to the towers, there are also a number of shopping malls and other attractions nearby that make this a must-see destination for anyone visiting Malaysia.

14. Jeju Island (South Korea)

Jeju Island is a popular tourist destination located off the coast of South Korea. It is best known for its volcanic landscape, which includes a number of active and inactive volcanoes.

Jeju is a popular destination in South Korea

Jeju Island is also home to a number of beaches, waterfalls, and other natural attractions. In addition to its natural beauty, Jeju Island is also known for its rich history and culture.

15. Ayutthaya Historical Park (Thailand)

If your journey to South East Asia leads you to Thailand, be sure to check out the Ayutthaya Historical Park. This UNESCO World Heritage Site used to be the capital of Thailand and is home to many ancient temples, palaces, and other historical landmarks.

The park is located in Ayutthaya City, which was founded over 400 years ago by King Ramathibodi I. Today, the city is a popular tourist destination for those interested in Thai history and culture.

16. The Great Buddha of Thailand (Thailand)

The Great Buddha of Thailand is a massive statue of Buddha that is located in Wat Muang temple in Ang Thong province. The statue is 42 meters tall and weighs over 100 tons.

The Great Buddha of Thailand is one of the largest statues of Buddha in the world, and it is a popular tourist destination. Visitors to the statue can climb to the top of it for a panoramic view of the surrounding area.

17. Grand Palace (Thailand)

If you are spending time in Bangkok, Thailand, be sure to visit the Grand Palace. This landmark is a complex of buildings that were once the official residence of the Kings of Siam.

Asian Landmarks: The Grand Palace in Thailand

The palace is made up of several different temples and palaces, and it is surrounded by beautiful gardens. The Grand Palace's popularity as a tourist destination has led to strict rules about dress code and photography

18. Besakih Temple  (Indonesia)

Besakih Temple is a Hindu temple located on the slopes of Mount Agung in Bali, Indonesia. It is the largest and most important temple in Bali, and it is one of the most popular tourist destinations on the island.

Besakih Temple - A Notable Asian Landmark

Besakih Temple was built in the 9th century, and it is composed of 22 separate sanctuaries that are dedicated to the various Hindu gods. If you visit this spectacular temple, be sure not to miss the impressive views of Mount Agung and the surrounding rice fields.

19. The Istana (Brunei)

Located in Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei, the Istana is a palace complex that was once home to the Sultan of Brunei. The most famous building at the Istana is the 23-karat gold domed mosque, which sits on its own island.

Visitors can tour the Istana grounds and see the beautiful gardens, museums, and fountains that are located there. If you want to get a glimpse of royal life in Brunei, be sure to visit the Istana during your trip.

20. Burj Khalifa (United Arab Emirates)

The Burj Khalifa is the tallest building in the world, and it is located in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The building stands at 2,722 feet tall, and it has 160 stories.

Burj Khalifa: Tallest Building In The World

The Burj Khalifa is an engineering marvel, and it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Dubai. Visitors can take a ride to the top of the building to get a bird's eye view of Dubai.

Related: Dubai captions and quotes

21. Cappadocia (Turkey)

If you're looking for one of the best landmarks of Asia to see from a hot air balloon, Cappadocia is the place to go. This region in Turkey is home to numerous “fairy chimneys,” which are tall rock formations that have been formed by wind and water erosion.

Related: Hot Air Balloon Captions

Add Cappadocia (Turkey) To Your Bucket List

I've previously cycled through this region, and found it an incredible place to visit. There are even some underground ancient cities you can visit nearby!

22. Cu Chi Tunnels (Vietnam)

The Cu Chi Tunnels are a network of tunnels that were used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War. The tunnels are located in the Cu Chi district of Ho Chi Minh City, and they stretch for over 150 miles.

Cu Chi Tunnels in Vietnam - An Historic Monument

The Cu Chi Tunnels are one of the most popular tourist attractions in Vietnam, and visitors can tour the tunnels to see how they were constructed and lived in. If you want to learn more about the history of the Vietnam War, be sure to visit this fascinating landmark.

23. Fushimi Inari-Taisha (Japan)

Fushimi Inari-Taisha is a Shinto shrine located in Kyoto, Japan. The shrine is famous for its thousands of red torii gates, which lead up the mountain behind it.

Landmarks of Asia: Fushimi Inari-Taisha

Fushimi Inari-Taisha is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Kyoto, and it is a beautiful place to visit any time of year. If you are lucky, you may even see a fox, which is considered to be the guardian spirit of the shrine.

24. Hawa Mahal  (India)

The Hawa Mahal is an iconic architectural landmark in Jaipur, India. It was originally built as a royal palace for the women of the royal family to watch street parades and festivals from behind windows covered with intricate carvings.

The iconic landmark of Hawa Mahal  (India)

Today, the Hawa Mahal is a popular tourist destination that offers visitors incredible views over Jaipur. If you want to see a site that is truly unique and unlike anything else in Asia, be sure to add the Hawa Mahal to your itinerary.

25. Isfahan Royal Square (Iran)

If you want to see one of the most beautiful and well-preserved squares in the world, look no further than Isfahan Royal Square. This square was once home to a royal palace, but today it is best known for its stunning architecture.

Isfahan Royal Square (Iran)

Visitors to Isfahan Royal Square can admire the artistry and technology that went into its construction. The square is also a great place to people watch and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

26. Jeju Volcanic Island (South Korea)

The Jeju Volcanic Island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that was created by a 1,600-foot tall volcano. The island is the largest in South Korea, and it is home to numerous hiking trails and beaches that are perfect for relaxing.

Visitors can also explore Hallasan National Park, which has many crater lakes, waterfalls, and other natural wonders. If you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of Seoul, Jeju Volcanic Island is the perfect place to go.

27. Jingmaham Living Root Bridge (India)

Perhaps not the most well known of the Asia landmarks, but one of the more intriguing. The Jingmaham Living Root Bridge is a man-made bridge that was constructed using the roots of living trees.

Jingmaham Living Root Bridge (India)

The bridge is located in the Indian state of Meghalaya, and it is one of the only of its kind in the world. If you are looking for something truly unique to see on your travels, be sure to add the Jingmaham Living Root Bridge to your itinerary.

28. Komodo National Park (Indonesia)

If you are into wildlife, you will love the Komodo National Park. This national park is located in Indonesia and is home to various species of animals, including the famous Komodo dragon.

Komodo Island Bucket List Landmark In Asia

The dragons are very large, reaching up to 10 feet in length. If you want to see these incredible creatures in person, be sure to add the Komodo National Park to your itinerary.

29. Kuwait Towers (Kuwait)

While Kuwait itself may not be the most popular tourist destination in Asia, the Kuwait Towers are definitely worth a visit. These beautiful towers were built in 1979 and offer incredible views over Kuwait City.

Kuwait Towers are a monumental landmark

The main tower is home to an observation deck, restaurant, and café. The smaller towers house water tanks, which supply water to the city below.

30. Marina Bay Sands (Singapore)

One of the most famous buildings in Singapore is the Marina Bay Sands. This incredible structure features three skyscrapers connected by a large, rooftop deck that is accessible to the public.

Marina Bay Sands in Singapore - A Modern Landmark

At night, the waterfront area around the building comes alive with colorful lights and attractions. It's a lovely area to walk around, and it really feels like you've entered the future!

31. Merlion Statue  (Singapore)

The Merlion Statue is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Singapore. It is a large statue that takes the form of a mythical creature with a lion's head and the body of a fish.

Merlion Statues in Singapore

It was originally built as a tourism mascot for Singapore, but today it is one of the city's top attractions. Visitors can climb up to the top of the statue and take in amazing views of Marina Bay.

32. Mount Everest (Nepal)

Although Mount Everest technically borders China as well, most people associate it with Nepal. This mountain is the tallest in the world and attracts climbers from all over the globe.

Mount Everest Is The Most Famous Natural Landmark In Asia

At 29,029 feet tall, it can be difficult to reach the summit of Mount Everest, but those who have successfully climbed this mountain often consider it to be a life-changing experience. Even making the Everest Base Camp Trek is a challenge!

33. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque (Abu Dhabi)

If you are looking for a religious landmark in Asia, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is definitely worth visiting. This mosque was built in 2007 and can accommodate up to 40,000 worshippers at once.

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque (Abu Dhabi)

It also features an incredibly beautiful architecture and interior design that really has to be seen to be believed. The gardens around the mosque are also very lovely, making this one of the most peaceful places in Abu Dhabi.

34. Sigiriya Fortress (Sri Lanka)

The Sigiriya Fortress is one of the most famous landmarks in Sri Lanka. It is a large palace that was built on top of an ancient rock formation hundreds of years ago.

Sigiriya Fortress (Sri Lanka)

It features beautiful architecture, frescoes, and other works of art that really have to be seen to be believed. If you are visiting Sri Lanka and want to see something really memorable, be sure to add the Sigiriya Fortress to your itinerary.

35. The Silver Pagoda (Cambodia)

Although not as famous as the ancient city of Angkor, the Silver Pagoda is still one of the most popular landmarks in Cambodia. It is located within the Royal Palace complex in Phnom Penh and features a beautiful collection of silver artifacts.

Silver Pagoda in Cambodia

The pagoda itself is also made of silver, hence its name. If you are visiting Phnom Penh, be sure to add the Silver Pagoda to your list of places to see.

36. The Temple of the Tooth (Sri Lanka)

The Temple of the Tooth is a religious landmark in Sri Lanka that is said to house a tooth of the Buddha. The temple was built in the 15th century and is a very popular pilgrimage site for Buddhists.

It features beautiful architecture and is surrounded by lovely gardens.

37. Tiger's Nest Monastery (Bhutan)

The Tiger's Nest Monastery is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Bhutan. It is a Buddhist monastery that is said to have been built on the back of a tiger!

The monastery is located high up in the mountains and can only be reached by hiking. The views from the top are absolutely incredible, making this one of the most unique landmarks in Asia.

38. U Bein Bridge (Myanmar)

The U Bein Bridge is a 1.2 kilometer long bridge that was built in the 1850s. It is made entirely of teak wood and is believed to be the oldest and longest wooden bridge in the world.

The bridge spans across a large lake and is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. 

39. Vaishno Devi (India)

Vaishno Devi is a temple complex in India that is dedicated to the Hindu goddess, Maha Kali. The complex attracts millions of worshippers every year, making it one of the most popular religious landmarks in Asia.

The complex itself consists of numerous temples and shrines, as well as other attractions like museums and spiritual retreats

40. Thi Lo Su Waterfall (Thailand)

Thi Lo Su is a waterfall located in Thailand that is one of the largest in the world. It is more than 1,300 feet tall and cascades down into a large lake below.

Thi Lo Su Waterfall (Thailand)

The waterfall itself is very beautiful, but the surrounding nature park offers many other attractions as well. Visitors can go hiking, camping, kayaking, and more in the park, making Thi Lo Su one of the most popular landmarks in Asia.

41. Wat Rong Khun (Thailand)

Wat Rong Khun is a Buddhist temple in Thailand that is known for its unique and beautiful architecture. The temple was built in 1997 and features white building with intricate designs.

Wat Rong Khun (Thailand)

The Wat Rong Khun is definitely one of the most beautiful temples in Asia and is definitely worth a visit if you are ever in Thailand.

42. Gardens by the Bay (Singapore)

Gardens by the Bay is a large park located in Singapore that was built for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in 2010. The park spans over 100 acres and features beautiful gardens, walking paths, and even outdoor performance spaces.

The Gardens by the Bay is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Singapore and is definitely worth a visit especially at night when there is an amazing lightshow!

43. Boracay (Philippines)

Boracay is an island in the Philippines that is known for its beautiful white sand beaches. The island has become very popular in recent years, with thousands of tourists flocking to the area every year.

If you are looking for a tropical paradise, Boracay is definitely the place to be!

44. Tian Tan Buddha (Hong Kong)

The Tian Tan Buddha is a large bronze statue of the Buddha that is located in Hong Kong. The statue is more than 100 feet tall and faces north towards Beijing, the capital of China.

The Tian Tan Buddha is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Hong Kong and is definitely worth a visit if you are ever in the area.

45. Pulau Kapas (Malaysia)

Pulau Kapas is an island in Malaysia that is known for its beautiful beaches. The island is a popular spot for snorkeling and diving, as there are many coral reefs located nearby.

Snorkelling on Kapas Island in Malaysia

It's a popular day trip, but stay for a few days if you can to really appreciate this peaceful coastal island.

46. Monkey Forest Temple (Indonesia)

The Monkey Forest Temple is a temple complex in Indonesia that is home to hundreds of monkeys. The monkeys are considered to be sacred and are protected by the temple.

47. Inle Lake (Myanmar)

Inle Lake is a large lake located in Myanmar that is known for its unique fishing techniques. The locals have developed an ability to stand on one leg and paddle through the waters of the lake, which makes them able to catch fish with their hands. And they like to pose for tourists!

My top suggestions for the best things to do in Inle Lake, Myanmar

If you're staying at Inle Lake for a couple of days, hire a bicycle and pedal around the lake. You'll of course want to take a boat trip while there as well!

48. Golden Bridge (Vietnam)

The Golden Bridge is a bridge located in Vietnam that was built to connect two mountain peaks. The bridge is almost 500 feet long and is supported by two large hands.

The Golden Bridge has quickly become one of the most popular tourist attractions in Vietnam. Is it weird, is it kitsch, is it meaningful? That's up to you to decide!

49. Tubbataha Reefs (Philippines)

Tubbataha Reefs is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the Philippines that consists of two coral reefs. The reefs are known for their diverse and unique marine life, with around 600 species calling these waters home.

If you're looking for an amazing diving or snorkeling experience, Tubbataha Reefs is definitely the place to be!

50. Ajanta Caves (India)

The Ajanta Caves are a series of Buddhist cave temples located in India. The caves were built over a period of around 800 years, from the 2nd century BCE to the 6th century CE.

Ajanta Caves Temple in India
Ajanta

The Ajanta Caves are one of the most important historical sites in India. I visited there way back when and didn't take enough photos. Coincidentally, taking lots and lots of photos is one of my recommendations in my latest post: Keeping your travel memories alive.

Asia Famous Landmarks

Some of the most frequently asked questions about the most famous landmarks in Asia include:

What are 10 landmarks in Asia?

10 of the most important Asia landmarks are the Great Wall of China, The India Taj Mahal, the world's tallest mountain Mt. Everest, the Temples of Angkor Wat in Cambodia, Borobudur temple in Indonesia, Mount Fuji in Japan, the world's tallest twin towers in Malaysia, the Bagan Temples, Ha Long Bay in Vietnam, and the famous historical landmark of the Forbidden City in China.

Are there any landmarks in Asia?

There are hundreds of well preserved antique structures, temples, hidden cities, nature reserves and modern monuments all of the Asian continent.

What is the most famous landmark in Asia?

The most famous landmark in Asia is the Great Wall of China. The Great Wall is a massive wall that was built over 2000 years ago to protect China from invading armies. It is the longest man-made structure in the world and a must-see landmark for anyone visiting Asia.

Famous Landmarks In Asia You Need To See When You Can

 

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