Tourism is one of the most growing industries right now thanks to the increased wanderlust among the people across the world. We live in a time and age where one place can go viral today and the next day thousands of people would be booking flights to that destination. It’s a bittersweet thing, on the one hand we get to know the places that are popular but on the other hand it seems like we have seen it all and there is nothing unexplored.
However, there are still some hidden gems across the world that haven’t been flooded with tourism and still remain unseen by the internet. Today we are going to tell you such hidden gems across Asia that you can add to your travel bucket list.
1. Taiwan
Taiwan may have been in the news a lot in the last few years but not for traveling purposes. However, upon exploring the nation, Taiwan has certainly impressed me. Taiwan borders Japan and the Philippines and has some popular neighbor’s that have overshadowed the country. It is one of the simplest countries to navigate through and there are so many activities to do as well. If you want the Asian essence without the over population this is the country you must visit.
Cities like Taipei and Kaohsiung have some of the best nightlife and night markets. The cuisine is as delicious as you can expect from an Asian country. You can also visit many temples and shrines. If you live close to the island then it is the place you must visit at least once!
2. Johor Bahru, Malaysia
Malaysia is truly an underrated Asian country as not many people think of it as a tourist destination, whereas those who have visited here can’t stop praising the country for its beaches and amusing experience. Johar Bahru is the country’s second largest city filled with cultural sites, beautiful architectural buildings, and scenic views. You can find many Instagram worthy spots here along with some royal resorts that will give you a luxurious travel experience. If you like island hopping then it will be the perfect spot for you!
3. Appi, Japan
If you are looking for quiet retreats in the mountains then Appi of Japan would be the perfect destination for you. The place is far better than some popular snowy mountains that have a large crowd and overpriced services. Located in northern Japan, Appi is no less than a fairytale with mountains covered with snow almost all year. This small place will certainly provide you with the perfect Japanese lifestyle that is quiet and soulful. With a small local population and a handful of Japanese tourists, you won’t find this place crowded. Ski lovers love to visit this place from time to time as it is a perfect place to wander in the snow without the hustle culture of big cities like Tokyo or Kyoto.
4. Pontianak, Indonesia
When we hear Indonesia we think of Bali, but the country has far more to offer to tourists than the busy cities filled with tourists everywhere. Pontianak has a Malay, Dayak, and Chinese population which shows in the cultural sites of the city. Here, you will find the cuisines different from the rest of Indonesia and much more cost efficient too. There are plenty of natural attractions along with biodiversity parks.
5. Clark, Philippines
The Philippines, too, is an underrated Asian hidden gem that hasn’t gotten much attention from mainstream tourists across the world. The place is mesmerizing with its natural beauty and it’s good on the pocket with its cost effectiveness. Clark is located not so far from the country’s capital which makes it easier to commute and have a perfect weekend getaway.
Shopaholic loves this place for its market filled with duty free items along with a huge scope for bargain in its local markets. The place is a perfect blend of modern comfort with nature’s charm. There are many adventure sports that you can take part in. You can also catch some local events, celebrations, and festivals that are quite frequent.
6. Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan
Kyrgyzstan is a beautiful Asian country with a European touch, Bishkek can easily be crowned with the title of one of the most beautiful places in the world. The city was started to build around 1825 which makes it quite younger than other Asian cities. This is why it features a great blend of history and modernity. The beautiful architectural buildings are a sight to behold. There are cute little cafes that give a Persian vibe. The snowy mountains and lakes make it very scenic and Instagram worthy. If you want to enjoy a quiet holiday within a pretty city then this can be it.
7. Suzhou, China
China is a huge country and it holds many underrated gems that a traveler would love to explore, Suzhou is one of them. The place has been known as the Venice of the East and rightfully so. You will find the water canals connecting one place to another and people using boats to go from one place to another. The city is culturally rich giving you so much to learn and explore about its roots and history.
8. Nepal
The country is known for the largest peak in the world, Mount Everest, but it is much more than that. Kathmandu, its capital, features a number of tourist attractions including temples, cultural sites, beautiful mountains, and much more. Tourists love to see the beautiful mountains and try the different yet delicious local cuisines.
Conclusion
Asia is the largest continent in the world and it is home to many interesting nations. The food, the culture, the landscapes, and the people are everything worth our time and money. We have tried to find some of the cities that can provide you an authentic experience of the culture without being influenced by the growing number of tourists. So go ahead and choose the best underrated gems across Asia that you would love to explore before the whole world can!