This Part of the World Has a Statue Taller Than the Statue of Liberty — and a Temple That Was Lost to the Jungle for Centuries

Famous landmarks in Asia, such as the Great Wall of China and the Taj Mahal, draw millions of visitors each year. With over 60% of the world’s population and spanning 48 countries, Asia offers an unmatched variety of architectural marvels, ancient temples, and breathtaking natural sites.

Imagine standing before the towering Petronas Towers in Kuala Lumpur or walking through the ancient temples of Angkor Wat in Cambodia. From Japan’s iconic Mount Fuji to India’s historic Red Fort, Asia is home to some of the world’s most recognizable landmarks.

To create this list, we combined personal travel experiences, insights from local guides, and traveler reviews to highlight the most famous monuments. Each location was chosen to highlight a unique aspect of the region — from China’s ancient walls and imperial palaces to modern engineering marvels like Dubai’s Burj Khalifa.

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The Forbidden City, Beijing, China

The Forbidden City gets over 17 million visitors annually. This massive ancient structure is a collection of palaces, temples, and city walls that once housed the emperors of the Ming Dynasty. 

You’ll walk through 15th-century walls and see ornate decorations and architecture. Throughout the year, there are live demonstrations by people wearing traditional clothing. You can take a guided tour and learn about this impressive complex that stretches 72 hectares. 

When you go, get ready for long lines of tourists and students. Although busy, this inspiring landmark will leave you breathless. After visiting, head out to see other monuments and landmarks nearby, such as the Temple of Heaven. 

Travel Tips

• Take a Guided Tour: The Forbidden City is massive, and it can be hard to understand the history without help. I suggest booking a guided tour that takes you through Tian’anmen Square and the Forbidden City, where you’ll learn about the history of key buildings and enjoy panoramic views from Coal Hill Park.
• Visit the Gardens: Don’t skip the beautiful Imperial Gardens at the north end of the Forbidden City. It’s a quiet spot with lovely scenery, perfect for a break from the crowds.
• Take a Map: The complex is huge, and it’s easy to get lost. Grab a free map at the entrance or download one on your phone to navigate more easily.

The Burj Khalifa, Dubai, UAE

The Burj Khalifa gets around 17 million visitors and is the tallest building in the world. The impressive tower stands high above the desert city of Dubai and has quickly become a symbol of the future. 

When you visit, take the lightning-fast elevator up to the 124th and 125th floors. From the observation decks, you can look out over the sprawling city and see other iconic landmarks. 

After visiting the tower, take a trip around the city to get different perspectives of this iconic tower. Each angle is a new photo opportunity. Don’t feel ashamed; you’ll be joining millions of others who pose for selfies in the streets.

Travel Tips

• Get tickets in advance: Buy your tickets online to skip the long lines. You can save time by booking your spot for a specific time slot, especially if you want to avoid the crowds.
• Visit in the late afternoon: Go around 4 PM for daylight and sunset views.
• Explore the Dubai Mall first: The Burj Khalifa is right next to it, and you can visit the mall to shop or dine before or after your trip up the tower. There’s a huge aquarium inside and tons of restaurants.

Taj Mahal, Agra, India

The Taj Mahal gets around 7 million visitors annually and is one of Asia’s most famous and photographed landmarks. You, too, can join millions of tourists and get a selfie in front of the iconic structure. 

The Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan built the marble mausoleum for his late wife in the 17th century. This enduring legacy of undying love continues to inspire waves of tourists to visit. On top of its romantic history, the mausoleum is one of Asia’s most famous architectural masterpieces. 

The monument is incredibly fun to visit, even with the crowds. You’ll walk near reflective ponds and enter the beautiful building. When you’re done, there are other forts and historical buildings to see nearby, making Agra one of Asia’s top destinations.

Travel Tips

• Dress modestly: Be prepared to cover your shoulders and knees when visiting the Taj Mahal. It’s a religious site, so respectful clothing is important.
• Don’t miss the gardens: After seeing the Taj Mahal, walk through the lush gardens.
• Consider a guided tour: I took a guided tour that took me to the Taj Mahal with an express entry ticket, followed by a visit to the Agra Fort. It helped me understand the history of the Taj Mahal better.

Statue of Unity, Kevadiya, India

The Statue of Unity is the world’s tallest statue, standing high above the city over 600 feet (182 meters). It depicts the Indian statesman Vallabhbhai Patel, a major leader in the country’s independence movement. 

When you visit, you’ll stare up at an almost unfathomably tall figure. The statue is so tall that’s it over 4 times the height of New York’s Statue of Liberty. It’s made from over 2 million cubic feet of concrete, 5,700 tons of steel, and 12,000 bronze panels. 

Visiting the monument has become a national pilgrimage for schools, history lovers, and architecture fans in India. You, too, can stand at the base of this impressive monument while visiting the city of Kevadiya. 

Travel Tips

• Get your tickets online: I bought my tickets in advance through the official website to skip the long lines at the entrance.
• Visit the viewing gallery: Don’t miss the viewing gallery inside the statue. It’s at the top, and you get an amazing panoramic view of the area and the Narmada River.

The Great Wall of China, China

The Great Wall of China is one of Asia’s most visited landmarks and a massive addition to any travel bucket list. This giant wall features miles of towering walls and towers. 

It was built from the 7th century B.C.E. all the way into the Ming Dynasty in the 17th century. The wall was an important fortification against invading armies from the north. It stretches over 13,000 miles and is visible from space. 

Today, you can join millions of tourists every year in pilgrimaging to the epic landmark. You’ll see ancient sculptures and impressive stonework.

Travel Tips

• Visit the Mutianyu section: The Mutianyu section of the Great Wall is less crowded than Badaling and offers amazing views; plus, you can take a cable car up, which saves energy.
• Wear comfortable shoes: The wall has steep steps, and you’ll be walking for hours.
• Take a guided tour: Book a tour that includes transportation and a guide who explains the history of the wall.

The Grand Palace, Bangkok, Thailand

The Grand Palace is one of the most popular landmarks in Asia and a must-see destination in Bangkok. Inside the centuries-old structure, you’ll see ornate temples and giant sculptures. 

Take a tour to learn about the impressive landmark, which stretches 2.4 million square feet (220,000 square meters). You’ll walk through ornate gardens and courtyards and see traditional Thai architecture at its finest. 

The Thai Royal Family still uses the palace and you can enjoy national celebrations and events. After visiting, head to nearby Chinatown to try some of the best street food in the world. 

Travel Tips

• Book a guided tour: Take a guided walking tour for USD 18 to understand the Grand Palace’s history better.
• Take your time with the Emerald Buddha Temple: The Emerald Buddha Temple inside the Grand Palace is stunning.
• Watch out for tuk-tuk scams: Some tuk-tuk drivers near the palace offer “special tours” at low prices.

Tokyo Tower, Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo Tower is a must-see monument in Tokyo, Japan, one of Asia’s most visited cities. This iconic landmark was built in 1958 as a TV tower. Its architects based its design on the Eiffel Tower, and you may find yourself admiring its similarities. 

When you visit, take a ride to the top observation deck and look out over the city. You may even see Mt. Fuji. After seeing the views, tour and learn about its fascinating history. 

After your visit, you’ll be in central Tokyo, one of the most enchanting cities in the world. See other sights such as the Imperial Palace and Ginza. Then, shop and eat till you drop to complete this ultimate travel itinerary.

Travel Tips

• Go for the sunset view: Visit the observation deck around 5 PM, just before sunset. The views of Tokyo transitioning from day to night are amazing.
• Take the elevator: Use the glass-paneled elevator that goes directly to the main observation deck. Otherwise, it’s 600 stairs, which takes 12-13 minutes to climb.
• Practical details: The Main Deck (150m) is open from 9:00 to 23:00 with a 1,500 yen (USD 9.50) entry fee, while the Top Deck Tour (150m & 250m) costs 3,300 yen (USD 21) online or 3,500 yen (USD 22) at the ticket counter and runs from 9:00 to 22:45.

Gyeongbokgung Palace, Seoul, South Korea

Gyeongbokgung Palace is a hugely popular landmark in South Korea’s cosmopolitan capital. It was built in the 15th century and receives almost 6 million tourists annually. 

Inside the palace are huge structures, temples, gardens, and ponds. You’ll see traditional Korean architecture and enjoy cultural activities and events. There’s even a changing of the guard ceremony. 

Inside is the National Palace Museum of Korea, where you can see exhibits and ancient artifacts. You can also see folk art at the National Folk Museum of Korea. When you’re done visiting, head over to the Bukchon Hanok Village next door for the ultimate cultural experience.

Travel Tips

• Check the schedule for cultural events: Check the schedule in advance on their website to plan your visit around it.
• Avoid weekends if possible: Weekends can get really crowded. Weekday mornings are much quieter.

Kinkaku-Ji, Kyoto, Japan

Kinkaku-Ji, or the ‘Golden Pavilion,’ receives over 5 million visitors every year and is a registered UNESCO World Heritage Site. The three-story temple is an active temple and one of Japan’s most historical buildings. 

It was built in the 14th century and has survived fires, earthquakes, and wars. Visiting this landmark is an unforgettable experience. Although small, you’ll feel like you’re walking into a real-life painting with beautiful bonsai gardens and forests in the background. 

After visiting, don’t miss Kyoto’s other top monuments. Just be prepared for long lines and bring some snacks! This iconic city is going through a boom in tourism like never before. 

Travel Tips

• Bring cash for entry: Entry costs 500 yen ($3), and it’s cash-only, so make sure you have enough before you go. There are no ATMs at the temple itself.
• Take your time at the garden: After visiting the Golden Pavilion, don’t rush through the garden. The bonsai trees and landscaping are beautiful and worth taking in slowly.
• Visit nearby Ryoan-ji: After Kinkaku-ji, I headed to Ryoan-ji Temple, just a short bus ride away for its famous Zen rock garden.

Oriental Pearl TV Tower, Shanghai, China

The Oriental Pearl TV Tower receives over three million visitors annually and is now one of China’s most popular landmarks. It was built in 1994 and has become a symbol of the city. 

When you visit, you can take a tour to the top and gaze out over the massive city. You’ll look out at the towering high-rises and see temples in the distance. 

If you’re hungry, brave the crowds and dine in Asia’s highest revolving restaurant. Then, head back down to explore the rest of downtown Shanghai’s monuments.

Travel Tips

• Take the high-speed elevator: Don’t miss the elevator ride up; it’s quick, and you get to see digital displays as you ascend.
• Check out the outdoor observation deck: After seeing the view from inside, head to the outdoor deck. It’s a bit windier, but the view is even better for photos.
• Skip the revolving restaurant if you’re on a budget: The restaurant is pricey. Walk for about 20 minutes to the Bund area, where you can find great local food for much less.

Angkor Wat, Siem Reap, Cambodia

Angkor Wat attracts nearly three million tourists annually and is one of Asia’s most photographed and historical landmarks. This must-see destination is an abandoned city built during the 12th century.

You can explore ancient temples and palaces covered in jungle when you visit. Enter the structures and see precise stonework and carvings of religious figures. 

Spend an entire day here and see as much as you can. You can also go on guided tours to learn about each monument and its historical significance. A little insider tip: visit early to avoid the crowds and catch the morning light on the temples.

Travel Tips

• Wear comfortable shoes: The temples are huge and spread out, so you’ll do a lot of walking.
• Don’t skip the sunset: Go back in the evening to watch the sunset at Angkor Wat.
• Pack light: There are a lot of stairs and narrow walkways, so it’s best to bring only essentials.

Borobudur Temple, Borobudur, Indonesia

Borobudur is a 9th-century Buddhist temple in the heart of Java Island, Indonesia. Its stupas and stonework are some of the most photographed in the world. 

The landmark is like nothing else in the world, with its majestic designs and angles. When you take a tour, book the earliest entrance to enter before sunrise. You’ll climb onto the temple in the dark, and when the sun rises, it slowly illuminates the temple around you. 

After this peaceful experience, walk around the temple and enjoy views of the surrounding landscape. When you’re done, don’t miss visiting the 9th-century Hindu Temple Prambanan.

Travel Tips

• Avoid peak hours: While the sunrise visit is perfect, after 9 AM, it starts to get crowded.
• Wear respectful clothing: Since Borobudur is a sacred site, dress modestly.

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