Asia is a continent filled with rich cultural heritage, diverse natural landscapes, and delicious cuisine. For travellers seeking an immersive and authentic experience, there is no shortage of options in Asia. With so many fantastic tourist destinations in Asia, it’s time to start planning your next big adventure.
To help you narrow down your options, we’ve gathered a list of the top 10 Asian countries to visit in 2023. From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the beautiful beaches of Boracay, these countries offer unique experiences you won’t want to miss.
We’ll cover everything from the best things to explore and eat to the ideal length of stay and practical information such as currency and language. Let’s dive right in!
Cambodia
Located in Southeast Asia, Cambodia is known for its ancient temples, vibrant culture, and breathtaking natural beauty. Let’s start with the must-see tourist attractions in Cambodia – the magnificent Angkor Wat is definitely at the top of the list. This ancient temple complex is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most breathtaking sites you’ll ever see.
You should also explore the vibrant capital city of Phnom Penh and visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and Killing Fields Memorial to learn more about Cambodia’s rich history. And remember to check out the stunning beaches of Sihanoukville and the charming town of Kampot.
Cambodian cuisine is a delightful mix of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavours. Be sure to try the national dish of fish amok, a fragrant and flavourful dish of fish steamed in a banana leaf. Other must-try dishes include beef lok lak and num banh chok – a popular breakfast dish made of rice noodles in a fish broth with fresh herbs and vegetables.
The official currency of Cambodia is the Cambodian riel, but US dollars are widely accepted. As for language, Khmer is the official language, but English is also widely spoken, especially in tourist areas.
Best Places to Explore: Angkor Wat, Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, Killing Fields Memorial, Sihanoukville, Kampot, Phnom Penh
Food to Eat: Fish Amok, Beef Lok Lak, Num Banh Chok
Best Time to Visit: November – April
Ideal Duration: 3-6 Days
Currency: Cambodian Riel or US Dollar
Language: Khmer
Japan
Japan is one of Asia’s most fascinating and unique countries, offering a unique blend of tradition and modernity you can’t find anywhere else.
One of the must-see attractions in Japan is Mount Fuji, a majestic mountain considered a national symbol. Other popular attractions include the Tokyo Skytree, the Golden Pavilion in Kyoto, and the deer-filled Nara Park. For a truly authentic experience, you can also visit a traditional Japanese hot spring or onsen and participate in a tea ceremony.
When it comes to food, Japan is renowned for its cuisine, including sushi, ramen, and tempura. But don’t forget to try some of the lesser-known dishes, such as okonomiyaki – a savoury pancake made with cabbage, meat, and seafood – or takoyaki, a street food snack made of octopus balls.
The best time to explore Japan depends on what sights and activities you want to see and do. Spring is a popular time to visit for the cherry blossom season, while fall offers breathtaking views of the changing autumn leaves. Summer is the season for festivals and fireworks, while winter offers excellent skiing and winter sports.
The ideal stay in Japan would be around 10 to 14 days, giving you enough time to explore the cities and immerse yourself in the culture entirely. As for currency, the official currency of Japan is the Japanese yen, and English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas.
Best Places to Explore: Mount Fuji, Tokyo Skytree, Golden Pavilion, Nara Park
Food to Eat: Sushi, Ramen, Okonomiyaki, Takoyaki
Best Time to Visit: Cherry Blossom Season (Spring)
Ideal Duration: 10-14 Days
Currency: Yen
Language: Japanese
India
India is a land of contrasts and diversity that offers a rich and unique travel experience. One of the most popular tourist attractions in India is the Taj Mahal. This breathtaking architectural masterpiece is considered one of the world’s most beautiful buildings.
Other popular destinations include the vibrant cities of Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore, Kerala’s serene backwaters, and Ladakh’s majestic mountains. To experience the local culture, you can visit a traditional village, attend a cultural festival, or explore the vibrant bazaars and markets.
When it comes to food, India offers a variety of delicious meals that are sure to tantalise your taste buds. From spicy curries to sweet desserts, Indian cuisine is a feast for the senses. Be sure to try the iconic biryani, the vegetarian favourite paneer tikka, and the street food delicacies like chaat and samosas.
The best time to travel to India depends on where you plan to visit and what you want to do. The winter season (November to February) is the most popular time to visit, with cool temperatures and clear skies.
Summer (March to May) can be hot and humid, while the monsoon season (June to September) brings heavy rains and flooding. If you plan to visit the Himalayas, summer is the best time.
As for currency, the official currency of India is the Indian rupee. The official language of India is Hindi, plus 22 separate official languages recognised across the country, a total of 121 languages, and also 270 mother tongues spoken throughout India. However, English is widely used in tourist areas, and many locals speak the language fluently.
Best Places to Explore: Taj Mahal, Ladakh, Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Kerala
Food to Eat: Biryani, Paneer Tikka, Chaat, Samosas
Best Time to Visit: October – March
Ideal Duration: 10-14 Days
Currency: Rupee
Language: Hindi
Indonesia
Indonesia, the world’s largest archipelago, is a breathtakingly beautiful country with over 17,000 islands, a rich cultural heritage, and incredible biodiversity. No surprise there, if you consider the simple fact that it used to be home to ancient civilisations some centuries ago. From the lush green rice terraces of Bali to the majestic mountains of Java, Indonesia offers a wealth of natural and cultural attractions.
One of the top tourist destinations in Indonesia is Bali, known for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and spiritual culture. Other popular destinations include Yogyakarta, home to the ancient Borobudur Temple and the Prambanan Temple, the scenic island of Lombok, with its beautiful beaches and Mount Rinjani, an active volcano.
Indonesia is also a food lover’s paradise, with diverse cuisines influenced by its many ethnic groups and cultures. Be sure to try the iconic nasi goreng, the spicy sate, and the sweet martabak. The currency used in Indonesia is the Indonesian Rupiah, and Bahasa Indonesia is the language typically used by locals.
Best Places to Explore: Bali, Borobudur Temple, Mount Rinjani, Prambanan Temple, Lombok
Food to Eat: Nasi Goreng, Sate, Martabak
Best Time to Visit: Dry Season (April – October)
Ideal Duration: 4-7 Days
Currency: Indonesian Rupiah
Language: Bahasa Indonesia
The Philippines
The Philippines is a tropical paradise comprising over 7,000 islands in the western Pacific Ocean. With its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant culture, it is no surprise that the Philippines is one of the top tourist destinations in Southeast Asia right now!
One of the most popular tourist destinations in the Philippines is Boracay Island, known for its powdery white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant nightlife. Other popular destinations include Palawan, home to the stunning El Nido and Coron Islands, and the vibrant capital city of Manila, filled with its historical landmarks and modern shopping centres.
Be sure to try the iconic adobo, the sweet and savoury pork dish, and the famous halo-halo, a refreshing dessert made with shaved ice, sweet beans, and tropical fruits.
The best time to visit the Philippines is during the dry season, which runs from November to April, when the weather is cooler and drier. The wet season, which runs from May to October, can bring heavy rainfall and typhoons.
Best Places to Explore: Boracay Island, Manila, El Nido, Coron Island
Food to Eat: Adobo, Halo-halo
Best Time to Visit: November – April
Ideal Duration: 4-7 Days
Currency: Philippine Peso
Language: Filipino
Singapore
Despite its small size, Singapore has various attractions, making it a top-rated tourist destination for travellers.
Be sure to visit Marina Bay, where you can take in the city’s breathtaking skyline and iconic landmarks such as the Marina Bay Sands, Gardens by the Bay, and the Merlion. Other popular destinations include Sentosa Island, home to Universal Studios and stunning beaches, and the historic district of Chinatown, where you can explore colourful shophouses and enjoy authentic Chinese cuisine.
Singapore’s food scene is legendary, with a diverse range of cuisines influenced by its multicultural population. Try iconic Singaporean dishes like Hainanese chicken rice, chilli crab, or laksa to taste this vibrant island nation.
The best time to visit Singapore is from February to April, when the weather is cooler and drier. Singapore is known for its tropical climate, with high humidity and rainfall year-round.
Best Places to Explore: Universal Studios, Sentosa Island, Chinatown, Marina Bay Sands, The Merlion
Food to Eat: Chicken Rice, Chilli Crab, Laksa
Best Time to Visit: February – April
Ideal Duration: 2-3 Days
Currency: Singapore Dollar
Language: Bahasa Melayu
Malaysia
Malaysia boasts a rich history, a diverse culture, and extraordinary nature retreats. One of the things that Malaysians are particularly proud of is their food. They claim that Malaysian cuisine is some of the best in the world, and many visitors to the country would agree.
One of the reasons why Malaysian food is so delicious is its unique blend of influences. Chinese, Indian, and Malay flavours and culinary techniques heavily influence Malaysian cuisine. Visitors to Malaysia can expect to taste a variety of dishes, such as nasi lemak (coconut rice with spicy sambal), laksa (spicy noodle soup), and char kway teow (stir-fried noodles with seafood).
In addition to the amazing food, Malaysia offers visitors various other experiences. For example, the capital city of Kuala Lumpur is home to the iconic Petronas Twin Towers. Batu Caves is another popular attraction, featuring a series of caves and temples just outside Kuala Lumpur.
For those who enjoy the great outdoors, Malaysia has plenty to offer. The Taman Negara National Park is the oldest rainforest in the world and is home to various wildlife, including elephants, tigers, and monkeys. Visitors can also explore the beautiful beaches of Langkawi Island or go hiking at Cameron Highlands in Pahang.
Best Places to Explore: KLCC, Batu Caves, Taman Negara National Park, Cameron Highlands
Food to Eat: Nasi Lemak, Laksa, Char Kway Teow
Best Time to Visit: December – April
Ideal Duration: 4-7 Days
Currency: Malaysian Ringgit
Language: Bahasa Melayu
Maldives
The Maldives is a tropical paradise in the Indian Ocean, known for its crystal-clear waters and luxurious overwater bungalows. If you feel like having a peaceful, tranquil, and romantic holiday, the Maldives is the perfect location for a getaway – especially with a loved one.
One of the top attractions in the Maldives is its breathtaking beaches, where you can relax and soak up the sun. The turquoise waters of the Maldives are perfect for swimming, snorkelling, and diving, where you can explore stunning coral reefs and colourful marine life.
The Maldives is also known for its luxurious overwater bungalows, which provide the perfect setting for a romantic escape. These bungalows are built on stilts over the water, offering breathtaking views of the ocean and the opportunity to watch the sunset together. Not forgetting some picture-perfect scenes.
Neighbouring India and Sri Lanka heavily influence the cuisine. Be sure to try the Maldivian fish curry, a spicy and flavorful dish made with fresh fish and coconut milk.
The best time to visit the Maldives is from November to April, when the weather is cooler and drier. The Maldives is known for its tropical climate, with high humidity and rainfall year-round.
Best Places to Explore: Malé Atoll, Sun Island
Food to Eat: Maldivian Fish Curry
Best Time to Visit: November – April
Ideal Duration: 4-7 Days
Currency: Maldivian Rufiyaa
Language: Dhiveli
Thailand
Thailand is famous for being home to thousands of temples, such as the iconic Wat Arun and Wat Phra Kaew in Bangkok, and its bustling street scenes filled with colourful markets and bazaars.
Some of the best street markets you must visit in Thailand include Chatuchak Market in Bangkok, the Walking Street Market in Pattaya, and the Night Bazaar in Chiang Mai. Apart from shopping, Thailand is also known for its mouth-watering street food. Get a taste of the famous Pad Thai and Som Tam (papaya salad), or try the flavorful Massaman Curry and Khao Soi (curry noodle soup). But that’s not all; Thailand’s street food scene is a paradise to many. Be sure to try the street food stalls in Yaowarat (Chinatown) in Bangkok and the food stalls in Chiang Mai’s Night Bazaar.
If you’re looking for something upscale, Thailand is also home to several Michelin-starred restaurants. Some of the best Michelin-starred restaurants in Bangkok include Gaggan, Le Du, and Bo.lan. These restaurants offer a unique dining experience, blending Thai flavours with modern culinary styles.
Thailand is also home to some of the world’s most stunning beaches and islands, making it a perfect destination for those seeking sun, sand, and sea. Some of the best beaches in Thailand include Phuket, Krabi, Koh Samui, and the Phi Phi Islands, all with crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and stunning rock formations. These beaches offer a range of activities, from snorkelling, diving, and kayaking to simply relaxing and soaking up the sun.
Apart from the beaches, Thailand is also known for its vibrant nightlife. Bangkok, in particular, is famous for its nightlife scene, with a range of nightclubs, bars, and live music venues. Khao San Road is a popular destination for backpackers, with its lively atmosphere, street food stalls, and cheap bars. Pattaya is also known for its nightlife scene, with a range of bars, nightclubs, and cabaret shows.
The country is full of warm and welcoming people, not to mention its rich culture. You’ll be in for a treat, for sure.
Best Places to Explore: Chatuchak Market, Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, Walking Street Market, Wat Arun, Wat Phra Kaew, The White Temple
Food to Eat: Tom Yum, Pad Thai, Som Tam, Massaman Curry, Khao Sai
Best Time to Visit: November – February
Ideal Duration: 4-7 Days
Currency: Thai Baht
Language: Thai
South Korea
South Korea is a fascinating country that offers a blend of rich history, modernity, and unique experiences. The capital city of Seoul is a bustling metropolis home to some of South Korea’s top attractions. For example, visitors can learn more about South Korean culture, explore historic sites like Gyeongbokgung Palace, shop in trendy neighbourhoods like Myeong-dong, and enjoy stunning views from Namsan Tower.
One of the best things about South Korea is its food. Korean cuisine is famous for its exciting flavours. Visitors can sample everything from traditional dishes like bibimbap and Korean barbecues to street food like tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) and hotteok (sweet pancakes).
In addition to the cities, South Korea has its natural landscapes too. For example, Jeju Island is a volcanic island home to beautiful beaches, waterfalls, and lava tubes. Seoraksan National Park offers stunning mountain scenery and hiking trails, while the Korean Demilitarised Zone (DMZ) provides an opportunity to learn about the history and politics of the Korean peninsula.
If you’re up for something more cyber-futuristic, take a trip to the Songdo district in Incheon, known for its futuristic architecture and cutting-edge technology.
The best time to visit South Korea is in the spring or fall, when the weather is more pleasant. Visitors should spend a week in South Korea to experience all the country has to offer.
Best Places to Explore: Seoul, Gyeongbokgung Palace, Namsan Tower, Jeju Island, Seoraksan National Park
Food to Eat: Bibimbap, Korean BBQ, Ttokbokki, Hotteok
Best Time to Visit: April – November
Ideal Duration: 7-10 Days
Currency: Korean Won
Language: Korean
In conclusion…
Asia is home to some of the most beautiful and fascinating tourist destinations. From the ancient historical sites of Cambodia and India to the modern and innovative scenes of Singapore and South Korea, each destination offers colourful experiences – you’ll be creating a lifetime of memories and craving for more.
The countries listed above are among the most visited Asian countries, attracting millions of tourists each year with their rich culture, scenery, and hospitality.
Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or a first-time visitor to Asian tourist countries, there’s always something new to discover and explore. So, pack your bags and prepare for the adventure of a lifetime!
Get Exciting Deals on Your Upcoming Holiday to Asia
If you’re excited to explore the top trending Asian countries for 2023, mark your calendars for the upcoming Matta Fair at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC), Kuala Lumpur, from 1st to 3rd September 2023. This event is a must-visit for anyone interested in discovering new destinations, cultures, and experiences. Admission is free, so mark your calendars and come on down.
Stop by between 10 a.m. and 9 p.m. to speak with travel experts and learn about special deals and packages. Start planning your next adventure before it’s too late.
For more information, visit the MATTA Fair Calendar or MATTA Online, or contact Amir or Puteri at 03-9222 1155 or mattafair@matta.org.my.
