10 Beautiful Images of Asia from Instagram

There’s no doubt that Asia is one of the most exciting world regions to travel in. Backpack in Thailand, explore Myanmar, shop in Singapore, there are so many things to do and see!

Following the launch of the QS University Rankings: Asia 2015, we’ve indulged in a virtual tour of the region via Instagram to collect 10 beautiful images of Asia that will make you want to jump on the next plane heading that way!

1. China

@asiangeographic

Rice terraces are a common sight across Asia, but they’re not usually found in such beautiful images as this shot taken by Michael Kenna for Asian Geographic. The photographer used a long exposure technique to capture this landscape of Yunnan province in China. Did you know that terracing is the most effective way to grow rice? The terraces provide the constant irrigation that is needed, in a technique first used around 1000 BC.

2. Thailand

@anu_asiapacific

Next up is Wat Rong Khun, also known as the White Temple, one of Thailand’s most iconic temples. The temple stands out due to its immaculate exterior, but also by its story. It was built in 1997 (yes AD) by Chalermchai Kositpipat, a local artist who wanted to show his devotion to the Buddhist faith. You wouldn’t imagine that the temple is decorated with paintings of superman and movies star – but it is! It was designed as a mix of traditional and modern Thai art.

 3. Myanmar

@kimmaischphotography

Feast your eyes on this beautiful sunset in Myanmar!  Australian photographer Kim Maisch took this shot at the temple of Bagan in the Mandalay region. The country has started to develop its touristic industry since the powerful military junta allowed democracy in former Burma. The advantage for adventurers is that the many beautiful temples of the country will not be crowded with tourists. But you better hurry, the sector is growing fast!

4. Vietnam

@azawieja22

This picture was taken in Long Beach, Vietnam. That’s right, Vietnam has its own Long Beach (just like the one in California), one of the many beautiful beaches in the country. Located on the largest Vietnamese island, Phu Quoc Island, the beach has seen its popularity rise with the establishment of luxurious hotels, but has managed to maintain its calm and relaxed atmosphere. The island is mostly frequented by tourists and expats living in Vietnam, and is famous for its black pepper and fish sauce.

5. China

@aujinrew

Korean born Auijn Rew is a renowned photographer, “currently on the road” as she says in her Instagram bio. And after seeing her pictures, we’d really like to go with her. On her many travels, Rew took this shot of two Tibetan monks near the town of Larung Gar. The region is the home of the Ngarig Buddhist Institute, where around 10,000 monks and nuns teach and learn about Tibetan Buddhism. Check out Rew’s account for more pictures of this rarely photographed region.

6. Singapore

@darrensohphoto

From a land of simplicity to a land of extravagance. Here, the ocean is captured from the pool of the Westin Hotel in Singapore. The hotel is located on the Marina View and its “Outdoor Infinity Pool” is on the 35^th floor. It may not be quite as high up as the infinity pool of the Marina Bay Sand, which offers a view from the 57^th floor, but it has the advantage of being orientated towards the Marina Bay and the south coast of Singapore.

7. Bhutan

@wildjunket

Wild Junket founder, Nellie Huang was trekking through Bhutan when she took this striking shot of the Punakha Dzong, also called the Palace of Great Happiness. Dzongs are fortresses found in Bhutan and South Tibet, recognizable by their high walls and massive appearance. They are home to administrations, temples and monks.  The Punakha Dzong used to be the seat of the government of Bhutan before it moved Thimphu in 1955.

8. Cambodia

@everythingeverywhere

The temples of Angkor have inspired many photographers, since its discovery in 1860 by explorer Henri Mouhot. It is believed to have been the biggest city in world during the Khmer Empire’s rule in the 11^th century.  It is home to at least 1,000 temples, of which the biggest is Angkor Wat, one of the largest religious buildings in the world.  Famous travel photographer Gary Arndt took this shot when he visited Cambodia, calling the site one the true wonders of the world.

9. Mongolia

@theplanetd

How gorgeous is that sunset over the Mongolian Steppe? The nomadic lifestyle has always been the most dominant in this region, extending from Europe to East Asia. The people who inhabit the steppes live in tents and herd grass-eating animals. Mongolia is also the finish line of the Mongol Rally, a car race starting in London. The participants must race in ordinary cars and attend to their own accommodation. A true adventure for road trip lovers!

10. Japan

@adventurouskate

We end our tour of beautiful images of Asia in Japan, more precisely in Osaka. The city is famous for its tasty street food, high-end restaurants and nightlife. That’s why it was nicknamed the nation’s kitchen. If you’re in Osaka, like Instagrammer Kate McCulley was a few months ago, make sure to take a stroll in Dotonbori, the hippest neighborhood in the city. As you can see from her picture, a stroll through Osaka at night is quite an “enlightening” experience!

If your wanderlust is still not satisfied, check out @topunis on Instagram for more destinations and inspiring travel quotes! You can also share your own beautiful images of Asia by posting a comment below.