Asia Action & adventure, Animal, Autumn, Beach, Gardens & parks, Historical + Water sports pictures

• World

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.

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

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.

Phuket’s most vibrant town is famous as much for its wild nightlife as for its long stretch of pristine sand and sparkling water.

Futuristic architecture, sandy beaches, hot springs and eclectic attractions, such as a replica Statue of Liberty, await on this man-made island in Tokyo Bay.

Relax by the lake as you gaze at the city skyline or wander the grounds to see statues, water features and landscaped gardens.

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

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.

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.

Phuket’s most vibrant town is famous as much for its wild nightlife as for its long stretch of pristine sand and sparkling water.

Malaysia’s bustling, multicultural capital is home to some of the country’s most impressive buildings, key historical and cultural sites, and world-class shopping.

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

Relax by the lake as you gaze at the city skyline or wander the grounds to see statues, water features and landscaped gardens.

Imperial, political and religious landmarks, peaceful gardens, superb art exhibitions, live music venues and theaters beckon visitors to Tokyo’s central district. 

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

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

One of the world’s largest and most cutting-edge cities is at the heart of this region that’s blessed with sacred shrines, gorgeous coastlines and lush mountain landscapes. 

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

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

The magnificence of this mountain arouses awe, inspiration and even worship. Explore this amazing natural phenomenon up close or from afar.