Choose from 1,872 Fun Things to Do in Asia
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Tha Kha Floating Market
The Tha Kha Floating Market offers a peaceful respite from the crowds of Bangkok and the throng of tourists attracted to the larger floating markets closer to the capital. The market takes place each weekend in a tranquil, rural setting amid the canals and fruit plantations of the Samut Songkhram province.
Among the rural scenes and local traditions, visitors to Tha Kha will find locals punting along the waterways in wooden boats filled with fragrant flowers, fresh fruits and vegetables, colorful spices, and dried fish. Despite being only 10 kilometers from the larger and more famous Amphawa Floating Market, this is a wholly relaxing affair, where you can get an insight into rural village life and drift along the sugar-palm-lined waterways with a friendly local guide.
Practical Info
The Tha Kha Floating Market can be easily reached by road by heading north out of Amphawa on Route 325. Boats, tuk tuks, and organized tours can also be arranged from Amphawa. The market is only open on weekend days, and the locals of Tha Kha rise early, with things wrapping up at around midday.
Address: Amphawa District, Samut Songkhram, Thailand
From $ 72
Terrace of the Leper King
One of Angkor’s many mysteries, the Terrace of the Leper King once served as the northern half of a long viewing stage and audience platform for King Jayavarman VII and his entourage. The mystery of the site stems from the statue at the top of the terrace, a replica of an original statue of a nude, sexless figure known simply as the Leper King.
Scholars aren’t sure who he was, though legend tells of at least two kings of Angkor having leprosy. Another theory states that the statue isn’t a king at all, but the Hindu god of death, Yama, and that the nickname came from the lichen discoloring the statue’s surface. The original statue of the Leper King sits in the National Museum in Phnom Penh.
Practical Info
The Terrace of the Leper King lies just north of the Terrace of the Elephants within the walled complex of Angkor Thom.
Address: Angkor, Cambodia
Hours: Daily 5am-6pm
Admission: 1-Day Pass US $20
From $ 68
Thap Ba Hot Springs
The Thap Ba Hot Springs are a destination for travelers who want to experience Vietnamese thermal mud baths as a reasonable rate. Travelers can choose from communal, individual or couple options and sit back and relax into the steaming hot mud of this ancient site. The relaxing oasis offers visitors access to several pools ideal for a quiet swim, as well as a nearby waterfall perfect for unwinding after a serious mineral soak. A couple of on-site restaurants, massage facilities and comfortable sun beds make Thap Ba Hot Springs the perfect place to spend an entire day. Travelers say the helpful staff knows little to no English, they’re still somehow able to always point visitors in the right direction.
Practical Info
The hot springs are open daily from 7 a.m. until 7:30 p.m. and are located at 25 Ngoc Son about 7 km northwest of Nha Trang. Wooden mud baths are available for 250,000VND per person or 500,000VND for a couple. Communal baths are 120,000VND.
Address: Vietnam
From $ 82
Thanjavur Royal Palace and Art Gallery
The Royal Palace of Thanjavur was built by the Nayak rulers after they took control of the city in 1535 but was added onto by the Maratha rulers during their rule from 1676 to 1855. The result is a sprawling complex in various states of upkeep. Several areas of the palace are open to visitors in three different ticketed areas.
Just past the ticket office lies the Royal Palace Museum, where ceremonial costumes, weaponry and a few sculptures are on display. The Maharaja Serfoji Memorial Hall commemorates the Maratha scholar-king of the same name, while the Mahratta Dharbar Hall was where the Maratha rulers gave audience — you can still see their portraits behind the dais.
Two of the highlights of the palace complex are the Sarawasti Mahal Library Museum and the Art Gallery. The former displays pieces from Serfoji II’s collection of books, manuscripts and naturalist paintings of Indian plants and animals, while the latter houses a magnificent collection of bronze (mostly Chola) and stone carvings.
Practical Info
The grounds of the royal palace suffer from lack of posted information, so consider visiting with the assistance of a guide who can fill you in on the history and significance of what you’re seeing.
Address: E. Main Rd., Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu 613001, India
Hours: Open daily 9am-6pm
Admission: 150 rupees
From $ 21
The Himalayas and Mt Everest
Some people come to Nepal for the culture, others to learn about the local Buddhist religion, but the Himalayan country’s dramatic natural landscape is the biggest draw of all. Mt Everest, the world’s tallest peak and the crowning jewel on many a peak-bagger’s bucket list, rises 29,029 feet (8,848 meters) above sea level. Even if you aren’t planning to shell out the tens of thousands of dollars it costs to climb the peak, you’ll still find jaw-dropping scenery in spades.
The best time to enjoy the Himalayas and views of Mt Everest are from early March through the middle of May and again from early September through mid-November when temperatures are relatively warm and the skies tend to be clear and blue. From Kathmandu, it’s possible to trek into the Himalayas for a day to multiple weeks, hopping from one village to the next along the way. To see the mountains from above, take a flight tour of the Himalayas or a Mt Everest fly-by.
The best time to enjoy the Himalayas and views of Mt Everest are from early March through the middle of May and again from early September through mid-November when temperatures are relatively warm and the skies tend to be clear and blue. From Kathmandu, it’s possible to trek into the Himalayas for a day to multiple weeks, hopping from one village to the next along the way. To see the mountains from above, take a flight tour of the Himalayas or a Mt Everest fly-by.
Address: Nepal
From $ 80
Tenganan Village
The village of Tenganan undoubtedly belongs to one of the rarest sights in Bali. Unlike the rest of the island, Tenganan is not inhabited by Hindus, but by the Bali Aga, a small part of the population who has kept their pre-Hinduistic faith and traditions. They have no caste system and they also reject other Hindu customs, such as cremation and choose to bury their dead instead. Thus, Tenganan has always been strictly isolated from the outside world and even weddings are only permitted within the village community. Those who don’t adhere to the rule are expelled and it doesn’t come as a surprise, that the population is dwindling and today, only about 500 people live in the town.
The village with its rectangular center and checkered floor plan consists of only two parallel roads and is surrounded by a long boundary wall. The simple houses with their thatched roofs look like Polynesian long houses, mixed in are some shrines and pavilions and roosters, dogs and cows roam the streets. Apart from a couple modern power poles, the architecture remains largely authentic. Since the Bali Aga see themselves as artists and guardians of their religion, they not only have this unique building style, but also practice very distinct dances, cultural expressions and one famous craft: weaving the valuable double ikat fabrics. These textiles as well as typical Balinese maps hand drawn with macadamia ink on bamboo leaves can be purchased in the stalls. Nothing is mass produced and instead, is handmade in long and intricate processes, which of course, comes with a price.
Practical Info
Tenganan is located about 65 kilometers from Denpasar in the Manggis District. It’s easy to get there with either public or private transport via the coastal town Candidasa, which is well served by local busses. Tenganan Village can be found only 4 kilometers inland from Candidasa.
Address: Tenganan, Bali, Indonesia, Indonesia
From $ 39
Thai Hoa Palace
Situated in the Forbidden City, just inside the Citadel’s entryway, this palace was constructed in 1805 and first used for the emperor’s coronation in 1806. It later served as the meeting place between royalty and commoners, as well as for signing ceremonies and announcements of new laws. Visitors can cross the Trung Dao Bridge, over Thai Dich pond, into the Great Rites Court, where the emperor once received foreign ambassadors and conducted important international meetings. Stand at the exact center of the palace, where the royal throne was placed—and hear whispers from anywhere in the building, just as the emperor did when he held court.
Practical Info:
Don’t miss the historical film shown near the rear of the palace. It brings to life the structure’s history, restoration and use. Because photography is not allowed, pictures can only be taken outside palace gates.
Address: Vietnam
From $ 25
The Legend of Kung Fu Show
The Legend of Kung Fu Show, which premiered at Beijing’s Red Theatre in 2004, tells the story of a young monk who dreams of one day becoming a kung fu master. The best kung fu practitioners from all across China tell the story through Chinese martial arts, traditional and modern dance, and Chinese acrobatics.
The Basics
Two performances are staged daily, and while the 80-minute production contains no dialogue, a screen above the stage tells the story with English subtitles to help foreign visitors follow along. The show is popular with both international and domestic tourists and is often included in package tours that also feature a Peking duck dinner or an afternoon visit to Pearl Market (Hongqiao Market) or the Temple of Heaven.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Chinese kung fu and acrobatic show is a must for performing-arts enthusiasts.
- Most Legend of Kung Fu Show tours include hotel pickup and drop-off in Beijing.
- Book your Legend of Kung Fu Show tickets ahead of time, as they often sell out.
How to Get There
The easiest way to reach the Red Theatre is by taking subway Line 5 to Tiantandongmen Station, situated near the east entrance to the Temple of Heaven. Taxis can sometimes be difficult to find near the theater.
When to Get There
There are two shows nightly at Beijing’s Red Theatre. Be sure to arrive a few minutes early to find your seat.
Legend of Kung Fu Show Performers
This popular kung fu show is a hit largely due to the skill of the performers. China’s leading performing arts production company scouts for the best martial artists and dancers from around the country. The average age of the performers is only 17—a testament to their incredible talent.
Address: 44 Xingfu Street, Dongcheng, Beijing, China
Hours: Day show: 5:15pm, Evening show 7:30pm.
Admission: Prices vary by seat
From $ 27
Thamel District
Thamel is the beating heart of Kathmandu’s traveler scene. Hiking and rafting businesses, hotels, restaurants, cafes, bars, and souvenir shops are jam-packed into the narrow streets of Thamel. While Thamel is hardly typical of the rest of Kathmandu, it’s a lively place to spend time, and is convenient for planning your travels around Nepal.
The Basics
Thamel offers practically everything a visitor to Nepal needs, whether that’s a waterproof jacket, a decent coffee, or a new tattoo. While it’s sometimes dismissively called a tourist ghetto, that isn’t entirely fair. Many Nepalis live and work in Thamel, and there are pockets of traditional culture that include temples and old Newari buildings. But if you’re craving Israeli food or pizza, you’ll find these in Thamel, too.
Things to Know Before You Go
- In late 2017, several of the main streets of Thamel were pedestrianized. It is now quite comfortable to walk around.
- Thamel is home to some children who live on the street and beg. It’s not advisable to give them money.
- Thamel is not generally dangerous, but it’s a good idea to be extra careful with your valuables, especially when out at night.
- Hotels along Thamel Marg can be noisy on weekend nights, with the sound of bars and live music nearby.
How to Get There
When staying in Kathmandu, there’s a high chance you’ll be staying in Thamel. It’s about a 20-minute taxi ride from the airport. Along with Durbar Marg (a short walk or drive to the east), Thamel is considered central Kathmandu. Kathmandu’s white taxis gather just outside the entrance to Thamel, on Tridevi Sadak and Narsingh Chowk. Wherever you go in Kathmandu you’ll easily be able to find your way back to Thamel in a taxi.
When to Get There
Thamel is busiest during the peak tourist seasons in Nepal, March-May and September-November. Many of the shops are shut on Saturdays, Nepal’s day of rest. While Thamel is home to many bars and clubs, most places aren’t allowed to stay open beyond midnight, so you’ll find that even the streets of Thamel empty out in the dead of night.
Walk to the Durbar Square or Swayambhunath
On Saturdays, when Kathmandu’s traffic thins, it’s possible to walk comfortably from Thamel to the iconic sights of the Durbar Square (to the south) or Swayambhunath Stupa (on a hill to the west). Both places take around half an hour to reach on foot, and walking is a good way to get a feel for the architecture, markets, and general everyday life on the streets of Kathmandu.
Address: Thamel, Kathmandu, Nepal
From $ 1
Thanh Toan Bridge
Thanh Toan Bridge spans a canal in the countryside village of Thuy Thanh, around seven kilometers east of Hue. It’s a small, covered bridge – the sister to Hoi An’s famous Japanese Covered Bridge (although some argue Hue’s is more distinct in many ways). The structure is both Japanese and Chinese in style and has a square-timber arch decorated with ancient ceramics, along with inscriptions in traditional Chinese script.
There is a story behind the origins of Thanh Toan Bridge: It is said to have been built during Emperor Le Hien Tong’s reign in the mid-18th century, with construction initiated by Tran Thi Dao, the wife of a high-ranking mandarin in the Emperor's court. Tran Thi Dao established the bridge to create smooth transportation and communication around the village, which was divided in two by the canal. Emperor Le Hien Tong recognized Thi Dao’s initiative and charity by exempting the village from imperial taxations.
Practical Info
There are a number of ways to reach Thanh Toan Bridge from Hue, with the most scenic being by motorbike or bicycle. There’s a small agricultural museum near the bridge that’s free to visit.
Address: Thuy Thanh, Hue, Huong Thuy, Vietnam 536100, Vietnam
From $ 23
Thang Long Water Puppet Theater
The art form of water puppetry originated at least 1,000 years ago in the rice fields of north Vietnam. Particularly if you’re traveling with kids, you’d be remiss to leave Hanoi without catching a show at the Thang Long Water Puppet Theater. A Vietnamese orchestra accompanies the water puppets, with some modern special effects.
The Basics
Right next to Hoan Kiem Lake (Lake of the Restored Sword) in the heart of the Old Quarter, the Thang Long Water Puppet Theater offers five shows a day complete with dry ice and fireworks. Shows are very popular, so book your water-puppet tickets ahead of time during high season; consider having tickets delivered to your hotel room to beat long lines upon arrival.
A few Hanoi city tours include Thang Long Water Puppet Theater tickets, sometimes combined with a walking tour or food tour of the Old Quarter, a street-food haven with plenty of historical alleys.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Thang Long Water Puppet Theater is a must for families.
- The puppet performance lasts barely an hour, so neither adults nor children will have time to get bored.
- Unlike some outdoor water-puppet shows, Thang Long is an enclosed theater, which means it’s pleasant even during winter.
- There is a café on-site if you’d like to eat before or after your performance, as well as souvenir shops.
How to Get There
Right in the heart of the Old Quarter, close to Hoan Kiem Lake, Thang Long Water Puppet Theater is an easy, pleasant walk from Old Quarter hotels, where most tourists stay. If you’re staying farther afield, buses 8, 9, 14, 31, and 36 run to Hoan Kiem Lake—or simply book tickets as a package with round-trip transfers.
When to Get There
Like most theaters, the Thang Long Water Puppet Theater is busiest on weekends, so visit during the week for a quieter session. There are five shows per day, from mid-afternoon through late evening, with an additional morning show on Sundays. As with elsewhere in Vietnam, it can be packed over the Tet (Lunar New Year) period.
The History of the Water Puppets
Both China and Southeast Asia have a rich puppeteering tradition, but water puppets are a specifically Vietnamese creation. They originated in the flooded rice paddies of the Red River Delta and have been documented for over 1,000 years—since Hanoi was first established. During summer, outdoor performances feel more atmospheric and closer to the original rice fields.
Address: 57B Dinh Tien Hoang Street, Hanoi, Vietnam
Admission: Varies
From $ 11
The Citadel (Dai Noi)
Constructed in 1804, this massive fortress designed for the Gia Long Emperor, is surrounded by a zigzag moat and defensive barrier that’s 21 meters thick. But visitors to this citadel-in-a-citadel-in-a-citadel won’t need to swim across rivers or scale towering walls to get a look inside. The Imperial Enclosure is accessible by crossing one of the 10 pedestrian bridges into the once royal land. Pass through Ngo Mon (Noon) Gate, once reserved for those in power, then wander through Flag Tower (Cot Co) and stare up at the nation’s tallest flagpole before weaving through the Nine Dynastic Urns representing different Nguyen kings.
Practical Info:
The Citadel is an easy walk from numerous hotels in Hue and also accessible by bike. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes or consider hiring a rickshaw to experience the entire complex. Open daily from 7:30 a.m. until 5 p.m.
Address: Vietnam
Hours: Open Daily from 7:30am - 5pm.
From $ 24
Thac Bac Waterfall (Silver Waterfall)
The impressive Tac Bac or Silver waterfall draws visitors to its stop off just prior to the highest point on the Tram Ton Pass, a winding mountain road with panoramic views of the Hoang Lien range. Thac Bac Waterfall rains down through the cool mountain air, dropping more than 320 feet over multiple tiers of boulder-strewn and mist-shrouded pine forest. A loop track involving several stairways a safe distance away, but still close enough to feel the mist of the rushing falls, culminate at an observation bridge spanning a narrow portion in the waterfall’s path.
Practical Info
Thac Bac can be reached by car or motorbike from Sapa—it is a seven mile trip from town and is included in many area day and multi-day tours, some coming from as far afield as Hanoi. Admission (3,000VND) is generally included in tours, which often also stop at Tram Ton Pass’ highest vantage and incorporate treks to local ethnic minority villages.
Address: QL4D, Lào Cai, Vietnam
Admission: 3,000VND
From $ 75
Templer Park
Templer Park is an oasis for travelers who want to experience the natural beauty of Southeast Asia and escape the crowds of Kuala Lumpur. This forest reserve covers some 1,214 hectares of wide, open space, and is home to scenic walking trails, towering waterfalls and bubbling jungle streams.
Visitors can spend the day trekking through the thick foliage of this wildlife sanctuary, where it’s possible to spot monkeys, hawk-cuckoo, Malaysian crested lizards and dozens of colorful indigenous birds and insects. Picnic areas are available for travelers who want to enjoy a sacked lunch before taking a dip in a quiet stream or heading to one of the park’s fishing spots to try a hand at pulling a local catch from the waters.
Practical Info
Templer Park is located in the Klang Valley in Selangor. It is about 6 kilometers from Rawang and roughly 22 kilometers from Kuala Lumpur. Travelers can access the park using the Rwang exit of the North-South Expressway or by taking the 66 bus from Puduraya in Kuala Lumpur.
Address: Selangor, Malaysia
From $ 50
Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum
The 1974 discovery of thousands of life-sized Terracotta Warriors near Xian was one of the archeological sensations of the 20th century. The figures date from 210 BC and were meant to guard the first emperor of China in the afterlife. Today the UNESCO-listed Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor ranks among China’s top attractions.
The Basics
A huge statue of the emperor now guards the entrance to the Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum, where three enormous pits are filled with row upon row of these remarkable effigies—the first pit alone holds some 6,000 examples in excellent condition.
The museum and excavation site is by far the most popular day trip from Xian, and options are plentiful. Choose between a full or half-day tour of the UNESCO World Heritage Site with a small group or your own private English-speaking tour guide. Some day tours also include visits to the Hanyang Mausoleum, Muslim Quarter, Big Wild Goose Pagoda, City Wall, or a Tang Dynasty show and dumpling banquet. If you’re on a tight schedule in China, you can even see the terracotta army on a day trip by air from Shanghai.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum is a must-see for history lovers and first-time visitors.
- Allow two to three hours to visit the site fully.
- The museum is accessible to wheelchairs.
- Photography is allowed in the museum, but flashes and tripods are prohibited.
- Many Xian tours to the museum include hotel pickup and drop-off.
How to Get There
The Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum is northwest of Xian, near the community of Lintong. The No. 5 tourist bus takes you there from the Xian train station, or you can catch public bus No. 306 from East Square.
When to Get There
The Terracotta Warriors are one of China’s most-visited attractions; to avoid the worst crowds, plan to visit on a weekday first thing in the morning or later in the afternoon, after the bus tour groups have left. Since the excavation pits are indoors, weather isn’t a factor—but the pits can be freezing cold in winter.
Xian Terracotta Warriors by the Numbers
Since their discovery in 1974, more than 8,000 soldiers, 670 horses, and 130 chariots have been unearthed. Each warrior is unique, with distinct facial features and heights, though the average height is 6 feet (1.85 meters). It took an estimated 40 years for some 700,000 laborers to complete the army.
Address: China
Hours: Daily 8:30am - 5pm
Admission: CNY110
From $ 9
Teramachi Street
Teramachi Street, a covered pedestrian shopping arcade in Kyoto, brims with shops and boutiques – a favorite shopping destination for Kyoto’s university students in particular. The name of the street translates to Temple Town, reflecting the many temples and shrines that occupied the area during the sixteenth century.
Today, it’s dominated by casual clothing shops and stores selling green tea, accessories, books and souvenirs. Hungry shoppers will find a few traditional Japanese confectioneries, as well as a variety of restaurants and cafes specializing in Japanese and international flavors.
Practical Info
Teramachi Street is about a 10-minute walk from Marutamachi Station. It’s also possible to get there by taking buses 4, 17 or 205 to Kyoto Shyakusho Mae (City Hall) and walking for about 5 minutes.
Address: Teramachi Street, Kyoto, Japan
From $ 63
The Bund (Waitan)
The Bund (Waitan) refers to Shanghai’s iconic waterfront strip, which runs for 1 mile (1.5 kilometers) along the west shore of the Huangpu River. Renowned for its extensive collection of colonial-era buildings, there’s also pedestrian-friendly promenade perfect for strolling, which offers stunning views of both the Bund and Pudong.
The Basics
No visit to Shanghai would be complete without a visit to the Bund. Admire the architecture of the Gothic, Baroque, and Art Deco buildings, many of which have been restored to their former glory and are now home to trendy hotels, galleries, boutiques, restaurants, bars, and clubs. Just about every tour will feature a stop here. Take a guided walking or bike tour, many of which combine it with nearby attractions like Yuyuan Garden and Nanjing Road. Cruise-ship passengers and those on a layover may want to consider a customized private tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Don’t forget to bring your camera, as there will be plenty to photograph along the Bund and across the Huangpu River.
- There are 2,000 benches and plenty of vending machines along the Bund’s promenade, but not much shade; bring a hat or umbrella to protect against the sun.
- The Bund is free to visit, but there is a fee to take the train through the Bund Sightseeing Tunnel.
- To learn more about the history of the Bund, stop by the Bund Historical Museum, located within Huangpu Park, at the north end of the area.
How to Get There
The Bund is located on the west shore of the Huangpu River. To get there by metro, take line 2 or 10 to East Nanjing Road Station, then walk toward the Huangpu River. Or take the City Sightseeing Bus, lines 1, 3, or 5, to Waitan Haiguan Dalou. There are also ferries running between the Dongchang Road Ferry Dock in Pudong and the Bund.
When to Get There
The Bund is pleasant to visit at any time. Visit early in the morning to see locals practicing tai chi or ballroom dancing. It’s also the best time to visit to avoid crowds. At night, enjoy views of the colorfully illuminated buildings along the Bund and Pudong.
Bund Sightseeing Tunnel
The Bund Sightseeing Tunnel runs for 2,122 feet (647 meters) from the Bund to the Oriental Pearl TV Tower in Pudong. There’s a special train that travels the tunnel, complete with a light and sound show, which takes just a few minutes. Contrary to the name, you won’t actually see any of the sights the Bund is famous for on the ride.
Address: Shanghai, China
From $ 30
The House of Dancing Water
Just as visitors to Las Vegas pay big money to watch “The Blue Man Group” or “Cirque du Soleil,” so too do visitors to Macau cram themselves into the City of Dreams casino for an evening showing of the “The House of Dancing Water.” Unabashedly referring to itself as one of the greatest shows on Earth, after producers and investors poured over $250 million into the creation of the show the end result is a performance which obliterates any live performance or sensory experience you’ve ever experienced. Handcrafted and created by Franco Dragone, a veteran Las Vegas show maker during the 1990s, the House of Dancing Water has sculpted a storyline and series of effects specifically designed to be infectious and engaging for mainland Chinese visitors and foreign guests alike.
While the holograms, special effects and state of the art sound and lighting are empowering components to the show, one of the most striking inclusions is the integration of a 3.7 million gallon swimming pool into the overall stage. The equivalent of five Olympic swimming pools, the aquatic element of the show is fused with aerial stunts, acrobatics and classic elements of theater which sculpt a love story ranking as arguably the best overall show in Macau. Despite the high price of admission and the fact that it’s performed inside of a casino, the House of Dancing Water is nevertheless a family-friendly event where kids and adults alike are entranced by the shimmering lights and the jaw-dropping stunts which literally take place by the minute.
While the holograms, special effects and state of the art sound and lighting are empowering components to the show, one of the most striking inclusions is the integration of a 3.7 million gallon swimming pool into the overall stage. The equivalent of five Olympic swimming pools, the aquatic element of the show is fused with aerial stunts, acrobatics and classic elements of theater which sculpt a love story ranking as arguably the best overall show in Macau. Despite the high price of admission and the fact that it’s performed inside of a casino, the House of Dancing Water is nevertheless a family-friendly event where kids and adults alike are entranced by the shimmering lights and the jaw-dropping stunts which literally take place by the minute.
Address: City of Dreams Macau, China
Admission: Varies
From $ 79
Tenryu-ji Temple
Ranked number one of Kyoto's five great temples, Tenryu-ji celebrates a history dating back to 1339 and stands in dedication and memory to an ancient emperor. Many of the temple buildings have been destroyed over the centuries, but the temple's landscape garden remains much the same today as it did in the 14th century.
The garden boasts a clever and unique design that marries imperial taste with zen aesthetics. Lush foliage lines a shimmering pond, and as visitors walk from one end of the pond to the other, it appears as though the seasons change in front of their eyes. Intricate stonework on one hill represents a mountain stream cascading into the pond, while in another area stones appear to be carp fish. Visitors seek out the garden to be transported to another time.
The garden boasts a clever and unique design that marries imperial taste with zen aesthetics. Lush foliage lines a shimmering pond, and as visitors walk from one end of the pond to the other, it appears as though the seasons change in front of their eyes. Intricate stonework on one hill represents a mountain stream cascading into the pond, while in another area stones appear to be carp fish. Visitors seek out the garden to be transported to another time.
Practical Info
The small Keifuku train line connects Kyoto with the city's Arashiyama district, and visitors should exit at the Keifuku Arashiyama Station for access to the temple. On the JR line from Kyoto Station, get off at the Saga-Arashiyama Station, and Tenryu-ji is a 5-10 minute walk. Entrance costs 500 yen ($5USD) and an additional 100 yen for access to the temple buildings ($1USD). The temple is open year from from 8:30am-5:30pm April through October and until 5pm from late October until late March. The temple's main buildings are undergoing renovations under March 2014, but the temple's garden is still open to the public.
Address: Kyoto Prefecture, Japan
Hours: 8:30am - 5:30pm
Admission: 600¥
From $ 81
Terrace of the Elephants
Located within the ancient walled city of Angkor Thom, the Terrace of the Elephants stretches across a grassy expanse for nearly 1,150 feet (350 meters) and once served as a ceremonial platform and foundation for the king’s royal audience hall.
The ornately carved Terrace of the Elephants, built near the end of the 12th century by King Jayavarman VII, gets its name from the relief stone carvings of parading elephants that adorn the terrace walls. Some of the elephant trunks form decorative columns, while more relief carvings depict circus-like scenes of acrobats and wrestling matches.
From the top of the central staircase onto the platform, you can stand and imagine what the view would have been like for the Khmer king at the height of the kingdom’s power, gazing out over sporting events, ceremonies or the triumphant return of his army.
Practical Info
You might be tempted to rush past the Terrace of the Elephants on your way from one temple to another, but it’s well worth taking a few minutes to appreciate the detail of the carvings here.
Address: Angkor, Cambodia
Hours: Daily 5am-6pm
Admission: 1-Day Pass US $20
From $ 45