Travel Inspiration – Top Destinations to Visit in Asia
Looking for ideas on where to adventure next? Here is a little postcard inspiration for your next destination! Sending you greetings from my favorite, must-visit cities across Asia. From tongue-tingling chili oil wontons in Chengdu to serene temple life along the coast of South Korea. These postcard-sized tidbits are sure to getting your travel juices flowing! Enjoy these top destinations in Asia!
Inspiration for your next trip to Asia! This post features my most memorable journeys across China, South Korea, Vietnam, Nepal & Hong Kong. Whether you’re planning a trip for a week, a month or even longer, this round-up of top places to visit in Asia is a great place to start crafting your agenda!
Table of Contents
China
Nǐ hǎo from China! You could spend a lifetime traveling to top destinations in China, but here are a few of my favorite spots to get you started! I recently took a two-week trip, visiting Beijing, Chengdu & Xi’an. From the historic beauty within Beijing’s Forbidden City to the cutest, cuddliest pandas you’ve ever seen in Chengdu, to an army of warriors (made of terracotta of course!) waiting at the ready in Xi’an. May my postcards from China inspire your next adventure!
The Forbidden City - Beijing, China
We made it to China!
Been here only 12 hours, but the adventure’s already started! Our flight landed at 5:00 am, and by 9 am we joined a group tour of The Forbidden City! There is just so much to take in, I don’t even know where to start. It’ s huge. Over 900 buildings with grand entryways with elaborately detailed decor that lead to hidden courtyards dwarfed behind towers and palaces. And the whole thing is surrounded by a moat! So glad we took a tour and learned more about the history of China’s most famous imperial palace. But, I don’t think we’ll book another walking tour on the first morning we arrive to Asia…
Beijing in June is hot, like really hot. Think hot yoga studio hot. I loved it, but I think a few other folks on the tour actually melted into the palace. We didn’t make it Jinshang Park yet, but I heard the view of the sunset over the Forbidden City is incredible. Maybe tomorrow!
We’re here in Beijing for a few more days. I’m sure I’ll write more soon!
– Court
Planning your first visit to China? Make sure to read my 9 tips for newbie travelers to China so you’re prepared for your upcoming visit!
Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding Center - Chengdu, China
Greetings from Chengdu, a.k.a. Panda Heaven!
Seriously, I have never seen this density of pandas in my life. Panda statues, panda buses, panda maps, panda shaped bento boxes. You name it, and you can probably find it in the shape of a panda here in Chengdu! Yesterday we went to the Giant Panda Breeding Center, and it was a total CUTE OVERLOAD. So many pandas. Good thing we have cell phones to take photos these days because I would have gone through at least 20 disposable cameras in just a few hours! Also, I definitely should have packed more elastic-waisted pants. Chendgu is known for Hot Chili Oil Wontons (红油抄手), and I think I will eat them for all three meals tomorrow.
Sending love & bear hugs!
– Courtney
For more travel tips to plan your adventure to Chengdu, check out my two-part visitor’s guide: Part 1: Eat Your Way Through Chengdu & Part 2: Top Sights in Chengdu! Definitely one of the top destinations in Asia!
Leshan Giant Buddha - Leshan, China
Greetings from Leshan, home of the largest stone-carved buddha in the world!
Took a quick 2-day trip from Chengdu, and now we’re hanging out with Leshan’s Giant Buddha! (He’s been around since the late 700s!) Over 270 feet tall, he watches out over the Minjiang & Dadu rivers below. Look beyond the cliff edge, and through the trees you can see Leshan City across the water. Starting off at Buddha’s eye level, you climb down stairs carved into the cliff face. The view from the bottom is pretty incredible. (I can’t wait to show you photos of me next to his big toe! It’s giant!) Not pictured is the climb back up… Definitely worked up an appetite. Ended the day with chuan chuan, local style of hot pot with a real kick from the Sichuan pepper. One of the best meals of the trip yet!
Miss you & sending love from Leshan!
– Courtney
P.S. I forgot to request a non-smoking hotel room. Amateur fail.
Ditch the tour bus, and follow the advice in my post to planning a self-guided trip to Leshan!
Terracotta Warriors - Xi'an, China
Greetings from Xi’an and the most delicious lamb skewers of my life!
Yesterday we visited Xi’an’s most famous site: the Terracotta Warriors. There are not just a few warriors, but thousands! All carved with detail and a sense of realism that it is hard to believe they were made over 2,000 years ago! Qin Shi Huang, China’s first emperor, commissioned an entire army be carved to protect him in the afterlife. And, you, too, can have your own mini-warrior for a few dollars at the giftshop! What’s crazy is the warriors weren’t actually even found until 1974, and you can meet the man who discovered them on his property! Later today we’re going to visit the Muslim quarter for some lamb & pita soup. The food scene here is beyond words. We’re headed back to Beijing tomorrow.
Love, Court
South Korea
From the buzz of downtown Seoul to the tranquility of green tea fields in Boseong, South Korea will be your next favorite travel destination! I even chose South Korea as a honeymoon destination, and it did not disappoint! Absolutely one of the top destinations in Asia no matter your travel style!
Busan, South Korea
Greetings from Busan!
If I don’t make it back home it’s because I’ve decided that I’m never leaving Busan. I am going to eat barbecued shellfish, seaweed stew and tteokbokki until I explode! Today we had fresh grilled shellfish for lunch in Cheongsapo, a little beach town a few miles away from Haeundae Beach. Warm sun, looking out over the Sea of Japan. We spent our the first night in Busan at at Beomeosa Temple, experiencing temple life. Meditation, a sharing session with a monk and even a morning hike. Note: if you are do a templestay don’t forget to line your shoes up nicely at the door!
Wish I could send some of this fresh seafood your way! This postcard will have to do instead.
oxox Court
Curious to see what else Busan has to offer? Check out the Top 5 Things to Do in Busan, South Korea!
The DMZ - South Korea
Greetings from North Korea!
Okay, not really. But, it’s probably the closest I’ll ever get! Took a tour of the Demilitarized Zone between North & South Korea today. Did you know that since the DMZ area has been mostly uninhabited since the 1950s, wildlife has been moving back in! Now it is almost a mini nature preserve. Visiting felt bizarre: a geopolitical hotspot saturated with Insta-worth photo ops. Pose with your passport at the Dorasan Train Terminal: Next Stop Pyongyang. Or try to capture a picture of the North Korean flag flying across the border. Putting the commercialization aside, when you visit the DMZ you are standing in a place that has the power to determine the political landscape of East Asia for decades to come. That’s pretty mind-blowing.
– Courtney
Home of Bibimbap - Jeonju, South Korea
Greetings from Jeonju – South Korea’s home of bibimbap!
Another day, another delicious destination! We learned how to make bibimbap at a cooking class in Seoul, but Jeonju is the birthplace of this Korean specialty. The true origins of bibimbap are debated, and some think if was a royal cuisine from the Joseon Dynasty. I’d believe it! Either way, this flavor (and protein)-packed dish has been a Korean favorite since the 1800’s and a Courtney favorite since yesterday. I’ll try making it for you when we get home! One tip I learned: the rice is even cooked with beef broth and bean sprouts! ::sooo full, yet still drooling::
– Court
p.s. We also visited the Jeonju Hanji Museum. Hanji is a form of traditional Korean papermaking. We even got to make a sheet ourselves. I can use it for my next letter!
Green Tea Fields - Boseong, South Korea
안녕 from Boseong, South Korea!
I think I’ve found the most beautiful place in South Korea. Boseong is home to the Daehan Dawon green tea plantation. Hills and hills of lush green tea, accounting for over 40% of the country’s tea production. It’s definitely a bit off the beaten tourist path, but absolutely worth the schlep! We spent today meandering through the never-ending rows of tea. And, the best part, green tea ice cream! Green tea lattes! Even green tea noodles! Boseong is along the southern coast, and tonight we’re going to a Korean bath house with fresh salt water directly from the Sea of Japan. We could use a little relaxation after all the walking today!
Until soon, Court
One of the world’s most rapidly growing economies, Vietnam is a country vibrant with innovation. Known as a backpacker’s paradise, you can make your way through Vietnam on a shoe-string. But, the diversity of natural landscapes, energetic cities, rich flavors and intense history make Vietnam a perfect option that can fit anyone’s travel style.
Hoan Kiem Lake - Hanoi, Vietnam
Greetings from Hanoi, capital of Vietnam!
I am writing to you from Cong Caphe, a Hanoi-based cafe chain that has a bizarre, yet aesthetically pleasing communist-chic vibe. Just Google it, and you’ll see what I mean. Also, check out the Vietnamese Coconut Iced Coffee – how many is too many in one day? Anyway, took one of the best walking tours of all my traveling experiences today with HanoiKids, an org that trains local college students to be city ambassadors. Such a unique and insightful opportunity to learn about Hanoi from the perspective of the country’s next generation. Also tried Bun Cha Hanoi today, but to avoid the risk of drooling all over this postcard, I will tell you more later.
– Court
Ready to book your flights to Hanoi? Find my top 5 ‘must see’ sites here for foodies and tour lovers.
Nepal
Momos, chai with yak milk and the Himalayas. What more could you ask for in a travel destination?!
Swoyambunath - Kathmandu Valley, Nepal
The beauty of Nepal is beyond words. Today, standing in front of the Swoyambunath stupa (or the Monkey Temple) I was completely overtaken. Close your eyes, and you will feel the cool wind blowing down from the Himalayas, making the rainbow of faded prayer flags dance across the horizon. Listen to the hum of the spinning prayer wheels, like the steady heartbeat of the temple. And the monastic chanting echos across, out into the Kathmandu Valley beyond. You don’t just hear the chanting, but it is palpable. You feel it in your body, and at that moment you are able to be completely present in way that you have never experienced. A written description will never suffice. When you make it here, let me know. I’m sure, even if it’s not for another decade, I’ll still be able to close my eyes and feel that moment.
Love, Court
p.s. I forgot to mention, yes there are also actually monkeys there!
Hong Kong
At the intersection of rapid urban development and century-old traditions, spend a few days in Hong Kong exploring the different layers of political, economic, social and historical context of this Special Administrative Region of China.
Over the past 100 years Hong Kong has experienced incredible growth, transitioning from a former British colony (handover was in 1997) to one of China’s and the world’s most booming economic hubs. Take advantage of your visit to Hong Kong to not only treat yourself to delicious dim sum and milk tea, but make time to learn about the social and political currents that are driving daily life for the almost 8 million people who call Hong Kong home.
Lantau Island - Hong Kong
Hi! I made it to Hong Kong!
I landed this morning, and I am taking advantage of my 48 hours of free time before I have to be at the office on Monday morning! My first stop was to visit the Tian Tan Buddha. You take a clear bottom cable car ride over Tung Chung Bay to the top of Lantau Island. The proximity of natural beauty to gigantic skyscrapers in Hong Kong’s landscape is almost unimaginable. The weather was a bit cloudy today, but the view was still pretty epic. Hungry from my adventures today, so I’m off to try an egg waffle and an authentic Hong Kong milk tea!
Wish me luck on my first ever professional trip to Asia!
– Court
Chi Lin Nunnery / Nan Lian Garden - Hong Kong
Greetings from Nan Lian Garden, the most tranquil spot in Hong Kong.
After a long week of work, a visit here is exactly what I needed. Standing in the middle of Nan Lian Garden is a surreal experience. Koi ponds, delicately landscaped trees, tranquil bridges and even a small waterfall provide respite from the busy city. Yet, when you stop to look up for a moment you realize that this small oasis is completely surrounded by towering highrises and skyscrapers. (Chi Lin is a Buddhist nunnery that first opened in the 1934 and was renovated in the 90’s. Nan Lian Garden is part of the same complex.) This the perfect spot to recharge. Also, with the contrasting landscape you can capture some serious content for the ‘gram.
Be home soon!
– Courtney
No matter whether you’re in Hong Kong for a couple days or a couple weeks, there will be plenty to experience and learn! Enjoy my socially conscious travel guide to visiting Hong Kong.
Help others find inspiration for their next trip to Asia, too! Please pin it & share on social!
Feeling inspired to book your next vacation to Asia? Let us know in the comments where you’re excited to be headed next!
This is such a fun article! I love your writing style, now I have some serious wanderlust for visting Asia! The panda bear postcard from Chengdu is just the cutest.
So happy to see China at the top of this list! We lived there for two years and it is so often overlooked but has so many amazing places to explore! Leshan Buddha is still one of my most favourite travel experiences!
Thanks checking out my post! I would love to go back and explore more parts of China. Any top recommendations of next cities or places I should add to my agenda?
Lovely ! I want to taste all that food now 🙂 Those wonton alone seem to be worth the trip !
Thanks for sharing
Love it!
I really loved this fun article! Love your writing style as well. After reading it, I’m actually hungry despite it being after midnight.
Well, depending on where you are right now it may be lunch time in China! 😉
I haven’t been to China n Korea yet.hoping to visit some day that’s a great post.thanks for sharing
Everywhere looks so amazing! I need to get overthere 🙂
What a unique article idea – I loved reading your “postcards”! I especially loved the photos from Korea. I lived there and taught English for a year, and all your food photos (especially Bibimbap!) make me want to go back!
My heart swelled looking at these beautiful places and illustrations. I was supposed to be in many of these destinations right now, but because of the pandemic, I’ve postponed the trip. Since I have some extra time to plan, this list gave me some extra ideas 🙂
Thanks, Julie! I’m so sorry you are missing your trip. I hope you can still have the adventure in the future!
My heart swelled looking at these beautiful places and drawings. I was supposed to be in Asia right now but had to postpone the trip — so this post is giving me some extra ideas! 🙂
Great post! I’d love to get to Asia one day. 🙂
I have only done South Korea on your list which was amazing by the way! I would love to do Vietnam next, followed by Hong Kong and Taiwan. I really miss Korea and the food, so delicious. Jeonju definitely does the best bibimbap.
Yes, visiting South Korea was one of the best trips I’ve ever taken! Vietnam is sooo delicious, and the nature around Hong Kong is incredible. Taiwan is also on my travel wish list. When you go, let us know what we should see, eat and visit!
Wow! What a comprehensive post! I’m saved this for later so that I can follow in your footsteps when we all get traveling again. Thank you for the inspiration!
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