There’s no better cure for the winter blues than a trip to a land that promises warmth, picturesque landscapes, and delectable cuisine — and Asia is just that.
The one caveat to visiting a continent that’s so vast and geographically diverse, though, is that choosing just one city to dedicate your travel days to can feel downright impossible.
In an effort to make tourists’ lives a bit easier, we’ve compiled a list of our top picks for the best Asian destinations to visit this winter:
Bangkok
The vibrant capital of Thailand is a city that never fails to amaze its visitors.
Amidst the modern skyscrapers, you’ll discover some of the world’s most fascinating ancient temples, like Wat Arun and Wat Pho, which serve as an artifact of the city’s rich cultural heritage.
Those seeing temperatures plummet back home will be happy to learn that Bangkok is remarkably warm this time of year, with November temperatures ranging between 75.2°F and 89.6°F (24°C and 32°C).
This makes for the perfect setting for a pleasant day out exploring the Grand Palace, cruising the Chao Phraya River, and indulging in the tantalizing street food that tops every foodie’s dream bucket list.
The city’s bustling markets (of which the Chatuchak Weekend Market is arguably the most famous) offer a treasure trove of souvenirs and local delicacies, so they’re not to be missed.
Bali
Indonesia’s paradise island seems to have overtaken all social media platforms these last few years, and for good reason.
Between the lush rice terraces, pristine beaches, and emerald jungles, Bali makes for the ideal backdrop for the pictures of a lifetime.
The balmy weather this time of year encourages tourists to embark on a sunrise hike up Mount Batur, explore the ancient temples of Uluwatu and Besakih, and enjoy the island’s vibrant arts scene.
Those looking for that quintessential tropical getaway, though, won’t want to miss out on Kelingking, Padang Padang, Suluban, and the dozens of other awe-inspiring beaches that dot the coastline.
Seoul
Unlike most other destinations on today’s list, Seoul is the perfect city for travelers looking to actually enjoy wintery temperatures and activities this upcoming season.
Don’t worry, though; precipitation in Seoul is relatively rare this time of year.
This means you’ll still get to explore the remarkable metropolis, marvel at the historic Gyeongbokgung Palace, stroll through the charming Bukchon Hanok Village, and shop until you drop in Myeong-dong without worrying about rain or snowfall – just make sure to pack a warm jacket.
Between sightseeing sessions, you can always warm up in one of the many traditional tea houses scattered across the city.
Lastly, don’t miss out on the chance to relax in a jjimjilbang and experience the healing powers of hot baths and sauna rooms.
Phuket
Phuket, Thailand’s largest and most prominent island, has now become synonymous with pristine beaches, azure waters, and vibrant nightlife.
As it happens, now is the best time to visit the Thai hotspot.
Temperatures hover around 81°F (27°C), meaning that it’s hot enough to enjoy a couple of sunbathing sessions at Patong, Kata, and Karon but not so hot that you can’t spend a pleasant day out sightseeing.
Phuket’s Old Town, with its colorful Sino-Portuguese architecture, is a must-see. So are the Wat Chaithararam, Big Buddha, and Green Elephant Sanctuary.
Tokyo
The visually captivating Japanese capital is not only the perfect blend of ancient traditions and futuristic innovations but also a safe haven where travelers can feel at ease despite being in the pulsating heart of one of the world’s most coveted destinations.
Winter in Tokyo is an especially magical experience, with the iconic illuminations taking over the city and creating a surreal atmosphere.
They usher you to go out and take in all of what the city has to offer, which, between the Senso-ji Temple, the Meiji Shrine, the Imperial Palace, and at least a dozen other must-see attractions, is a lot.
Tokyo’s culinary scene, from Michelin-starred restaurants to humble ramen joints, is nothing short of exceptional.
After all, you’ll need all the energy you can get to handle the chaotic shopping sessions at Shibuya and Harajuku.
What’s more, the Japanese yen is currently experiencing a significant dip, so your U.S. dollars are bound to stretch a lot further if you manage to get to The Land Of The Rising Sun anytime in the near future.
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