The 9 Most Scenic Villages to Visit in Asia

Located about a 30-minute train ride away from Shanghai visitors to Suzhou will be delighted by what they find. While the town’s central area is a bustling metropolis, which also just recently opened its first W Hotel, on the outskirts guests can explore the waterways of Tongli, visit the town’s famed silk factory, and walk through its many gardens, including the Humble Administrator’s Garden, which dates back to 1513. And, vegetarians rejoice,

Travelers looking for a remote village adventure that will also fulfill all their wintery dreams look no further than the Shirakawa-go region of Japan. The UNESCO World Heritage Site has fewer than 1,700 full-time residents, making it an ideal spot to get away from the rest of the world. To maximize the solitude, book an overnight stay in one of the village’s famed farmed houses, turn off your phone, computer, and any other device you have on you, and find a little inner peace.

Hoi An is a prime destination for history lovers and Instagrammers alike. The stunning destination, located in central Vietnam, is well-known as a vibrant place thanks to its famed UNESCO-recognized Ancient Town. The streets are all adorned in brightly colored lanterns to light the way to all of its delectable restaurants that call the town home. Head to Hoi An’s riverside to watch the sunset and capture photos that are well-worth posting on any social media platform.

Travelers looking to get the best of both worlds should book a ticket to the town of Kampot, located in Southern Cambodia, as soon as possible. The small town along the coast is an outdoor enthusiast dream thanks to its national parks, caves waiting for you to explore, and rivers to paddle through. But, the town is also home to a lively nightlife and food scene, meaning you can keep the good times going all night long too. To up the adventure factor book a thatched-roof hut with Oasis Kampot for as many nights as possible.

Attention germaphobes: Want to find your own piece of paradise? The village of Mawlynnong, India. In 2003, the town, located along the India-Bangladesh border, was named the cleanest village in all of Asia. But, it’s sparklingly clean streets aren’t the only reason to visit. It too is a nature lover’s paradise thanks to its expansive green spaces. Get even closer to nature by booking a few nights in one of the Hillside Cottages in Siatbakon.

Want another UNESCO World Heritage Site to explore? Then head to Luang Prabang in central Laos. The village is filled with well-preserved landmarks such as the one time Royal Palace that has since been turned into the National Museum, as well as its numerous natural treasures and waterfalls. In Luang Prabang, guests can also shop to their heart’s content for local goodies at the night market. Just make sure to leave enough space in your luggage so you can bring it all home with you.

For anyone looking to take to the water during their next escape to Asia try paying a visit to Malapascua, a small island located off the coast of the Philippines. The island is surrounded by white sand beaches with perfect pale blue waters lapping the shore. Guests could spend an entire vacation just relaxing on the beach, or take to the water for all of its famed scuba diving as well. It is a well-known destination for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts thanks to those clear waters, as well as a healthy shark population who may come over to say hi under the water. After a day of diving, book a stay at the Buena Vida Resort and Spa. That way, guests can have someone massage away any tension left over from all those shark sightings.

Those looking to get a peek at what Singapore once was should head off to the village of Palau Ubin, because, as Visit Singapore itself describes, “Ubin provides visitors with a window into The Lion City’s past.” The teeny, tiny island, located just off the coast, is teeming with wildlife and plenty of outdoor spaces for guests to explore. One of the best stops may be the island’s wetlands, where guests can take a guided tour to discover the area filled with starfish, octopus, sand dollars, and more. (Just remember to look, don’t touch.)

Though Jinhae, a village located in Changwon City, is always a beautiful destination to visit throughout the year, it is at its most spectacular in the spring. That is when for 10 short days its cherry blossoms explode to blanket the city in a pink, red, and white glow. To honor the sight, the village hosts its annual cherry blossom festival, where guests can watch cultural performances, shop along the streets, and walk along the miles of roads lined with the glorious trees.