Pictures of Asia

• World

The South Korean metropolis has some of Asia’s busiest markets and nightlife districts alongside tranquil teahouses and palaces surrounded by gardens.

This royal palace has been destroyed on more than one occasion, but today it stands as one of Seoul’s finest examples of classic Korean architecture.

This central Seoul district offers shopping and culture with traditional Korean art, antiques, and crafts.

This serene corner of Namsan Park displays an abundance of tree and plant species native to Korea in a series of themed gardens.

This 7th-century royal residence with reflecting pond from the Silla Dynasty looks especially photogenic at night.

Enjoy an escape from the city in one of Seoul’s largest urban green spaces, a sprawling riverside forest park with family attractions.

Enjoy wild nights and calm days in Phuket’s most vibrant town, as famous for its nightclubs as for its long stretch of pristine sand and sparkling water.

Asahikawa is Japan’s saké-brewing, seafood and ramen noodle centre. Amuse yourself at its zoo, sculpture museum, pottery village, ski slopes and beautiful gardens.

Thousands of jagged, green peaks rising out of the emerald waters, surrounded by the colourful sails of traditional boats, give this bay an almost magical appeal.

Despite being discovered by Hollywood in recent years, this picture-perfect bay remains one of Southern Thailand’s most scenic natural escapes.

This 7th-century royal residence with reflecting pond from the Silla Dynasty looks especially photogenic at night.

An active volcano, dense forests and seemingly endless stretches of undeveloped coastline make this island a less crowded and more natural alternative to neighbouring Bali.

Go scuba diving around the colorful reefs of marine parks, hop between islands and party all night at beach resorts.

Go scuba diving around the colorful reefs of marine parks, hop between islands and party all night at beach resorts.

Admire a treasure trove of precious relics from the Silla dynasty in the former capital of the ancient Korean millennial kingdom.

Dotted with ancient temples, burial mounds, pagodas and palaces, this former capital of the Silla Kingdom is the perfect place to explore early Korean history.

The malls, art museums and temple shrines both above and below ground level combine to keep you and your family entertained for days. 

Escape the busy streets of Seoul with a visit to this tranquil temple, which has existed for over 1,000 years. 

Join the masses who snap selfies every year at one of the most Instagrammed sites in South Korea, a UFO-like building that hosts a variety of events. 

This central Seoul district offers shopping and culture with traditional Korean art, antiques, and crafts.

Enjoy wild nights and calm days in Phuket’s most vibrant town, as famous for its nightclubs as for its long stretch of pristine sand and sparkling water.

Come for the entertaining winter penguin parade and spend time spotting birds, reptiles and majestic mammals at this zoological park.

These stunning emerald islands are the real jewels in Phuket’s crown.