Choose from 1,872 Fun Things to Do in Asia
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Meijiawu Tea Village
Meijiawu Tea Village, just west of West Lake, is a top producer of Longjing (Dragon Well) tea, considered one of the finest teas in China and the world. Surrounded by mountains, valleys, and streams, Meijiawu Tea Village is a picturesque locale where visitors can learn all about the heritage, production, and benefits of Longjing tea.
The Basics
Meijiawu Tea Village, nestled among lush, green terraced hills, is an ideal place to escape the hustle and bustle of Hangzhou and spend a few hours appreciating nature. Explore this charming ancient village, with its 160 teahouses, watch an elaborate tea ceremony, and learn all about tea culture while sipping a cup or two of this fragrant and flavorful tea. This is also a good opportunity to purchase some tea under the supervision of an expert guide.
Many day tours from Hangzhou and Shanghai include a visit to Meijiawu Tea Village, or another nearby tea plantation, along with other top Hangzhou sites, such as West Lake and Lingyin Temple.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Meijiawu Tea Village is a must-visit for tea lovers and photographers.
- The village is free to visit, but picking tea leaves and making tea costs extra.
- There are a number of historical points of interests, as well as good hiking trails, so allot at least a few hours, if not visiting as part of a tour.
How to Get There
Meijiawu Tea Village is located just west of West Lake, about 6 miles (10 kilometers) from downtown Hangzhou. If not visiting as part of a tour, it’s best to take a taxi. Or, you can take bus nos. 324, 658, 837, or tourist bus no. 4 from Hangzhou.
When to Get There
The village is open to visitors year-round. Spring is the best time to visit as travelers can try their hand at picking and making tea with the locals. Avoid going during Qing Ming, in early April, as it’s the busiest time in the village.
Tea Food
In addition to its world-famous tea, the village is also known for its tea food, dishes often made with and meant to complement the locally grown tea. Try local dishes, such as shrimp in Longjing tea, Longjing fish, fragrant braised pork, crispy-skinned chicken with Longjing tea, and moist chicken infused with Longjing tea.
Address: China
From $ 81
Mid-Levels Escalators
In Hong Kong’s South of Hollywood (SoHo) neighborhood, you’ll find the largest network of outdoor covered escalators on earth, known simply as the Central Escalators (or Mid-Levels Escalators). The series of 20 escalators and three inclined walkways stretch 2,625 feet (800 meters) with a 443-foot (135-meter) total vertical rise. This unusual Hong Kong attraction ferries more than 50,000 commuters and tourists between Central and the Mid Levels each day, moving downhill for four hours in the morning then uphill for the rest of the day.
The ride takes about 25 minutes one way, but part of the fun is getting off at the various stops to explore these busy Hong Kong neighborhoods. The streets and alleys to either side of the escalators, particularly at the Staunton Street and Shelley Street stops, are lined with bars and restaurants serving cuisine from all over the world. If you’re planning to travel up, start from the elevated walkway passing over Queen’s Road in Central District. Once you make it to the top of the system at Conduit Road, you can either walk back to the bottom or catch a bus or taxi to your next destination.
The ride takes about 25 minutes one way, but part of the fun is getting off at the various stops to explore these busy Hong Kong neighborhoods. The streets and alleys to either side of the escalators, particularly at the Staunton Street and Shelley Street stops, are lined with bars and restaurants serving cuisine from all over the world. If you’re planning to travel up, start from the elevated walkway passing over Queen’s Road in Central District. Once you make it to the top of the system at Conduit Road, you can either walk back to the bottom or catch a bus or taxi to your next destination.
Address: China
From $ 57
Mehtab Bagh (Moonlight Garden)
Directly across the Yamuna River from the Taj Mahal, Mehtab Bagh (Moonlight Garden) offers a stunning perspective on Agra’s most beloved monument. While the views are the big draw of this 16th-century garden, it’s also worth a visit in its own right for its elegant landscape design and quiet ambiance.
The Basics
Spread out over 25 acres (10 hectares), this garden dates back to 1530, when it was commissioned by Babur, the first emperor of the Mughal dynasty in India. At the time it was filled with flowers and orchards, and though flooding over the years has led to some loss of plant life, it’s still wonderfully landscaped.
Many Agra city tours, plus multi-day tours from Delhi and elsewhere that include Agra, stop at this riverside garden for photos. Generally this happens at sunset, when the view of the Taj Mahal reflecting on the river is spectacular.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Mehtab Bagh is a must for photographers and all first-time visitors to Agra and the Taj Mahal.
- Wear sun protection—there’s not much shade in the garden.
- Bring bug spray in the rainy season, as the garden can get muggy and attract mosquitoes.
- Wear comfy shoes that you don't mind getting dirty. It’s a long walk from the garden’s gate to the Taj viewpoint.
How to Get There
Mehtab Bagh is in Agra, across the Yamuna River from the Taj Mahal. From the Taj it’s a 20-minute drive; Agra Fort is about a 10-minute drive away.
When to Get There
Mehtab Bagh is open from sunrise to sunset every day, but the best time to visit is closer to sunset, when the Taj Mahal reflects on the river. If you happen to be in Agra on a Friday, when the Taj Mahal is closed to the public, you’ll definitely want to head here for the views.
The Legend of the Black Taj
According to local legend, Mughal emperor Shah Jahan planned a mausoleum to be built across the river from the Taj Mahal, identical but made entirely of black marble. However, the emperor was overthrown by his son Aurangzeb, and the project never came to fruition. Some have postulated that the presence of black marble ruins in Mehtab Bagh were foundation stones for the legendary tomb, but historians have largely dismissed the theory.
Address: Nagla Devjit, Etmadpur, Agra, Uttar Pradesh 282006, India
Admission: Varies
From $ 28
Melaka River
The Melaka River cuts across the city of the same name on its way to the Straits of Melaka (Malacca). In recent years, the river has been revitalized into a top destination, with both Malaysians and international visitors coming to soak in its history and marvel at the diverse architecture from the city’s Portuguese, Dutch, and British heritage.
The Basics
One of the best ways to take in the colonial architecture of UNESCO World Heritage Site of Melaka is aboard a Melaka River cruise sailing past picturesque riverbanks and beneath numerous landmark bridges. A typical day trip from Kuala Lumpur or Singapore might include such a cruise, as well as visits to the Dutch Museum, St. Peter’s Church, and Jonker Street.
Things to Know Before You Go
- A cruise on the Melaka River is a must for families and first-time visitors.
- Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat, as the river has little shade.
- River cruises last about 45 minutes round-trip.
How to Get There
If you’re not visiting the river as part of a guided tour, you can make your way there yourself by walking along Jonker Street until it meets the river.
When to Get There
The best time to enjoy the Melaka River and other outdoor attractions is during the dry season—typically April, early May, and October. Plan your cruise in the morning or early evening to avoid the worst of the heat.
Attractions to Visit Before or After Your Cruise
The departure point for Melaka River cruises is centrally located in the heart of the historic city. If you have some free time before or after a boat trip on the river, plan to spend some time visiting other nearby attractions, such as the Stadthuys in Red Square, Christ Church, the Maritime Museum, or Jonker Street (also called Jonker Walk).
Address: Melaka River, Melaka, Malaysia
Admission: Varies
From $ 28
Mega Adventure Park
Mega Adventure Park on Singapore’s Sentosa Island is an adrenaline junkie’s playground. The crowning jewel of the park is a 1,476-foot (450-m) zipline called the MegaZip, which lets guests fly over the jungle canopy some 236 feet (72 m) above the ground. There is also a treetop aerial obstacle course, complete with tightropes, cargo nets, and wobbly bridges.
Recreate the sensation of skydiving on the ParaJump, or test your strength on NorthFace, a 52-foot (16-m) climbing wall with three different routes to the top. The smaller-scale MegaBounce attraction lets little ones in on the fun.
Practical Info
Mega Adventure Park is located on Sentosa Island in Singapore. It is open daily from 11am to 7pm. Tickets can be purchased a la carte by attraction or as a combo of two or more adventures.
Catching the cable car from Mount Faber is arguably the best way to get to Sentosa Island from the mainland, as it offers spectacular views that all ages can enjoy. Alternatively, you can also take the North-East Line of the MRT to HarbourFront and make your way to Level 3 of Vivocity, where it's possible to catch the Sentosa Express monorail to the island. Once on the island, you can get around by a series of bus routes, the beach tram, and the Sentosa Express.
Address: Imbiah Hill Road, Sentosa Island 98829, Singapore
Hours: 11am–7pm daily
Admission: Varies
From $ 38
Merlion Park
With the body of a fish and the head of a lion, a Merlion statue is a national icon of Singapore, representing the country's history, identity, and transformation from a fishing village to the "Lion City." More than a spot of cultural interest with its own statue, though, Merlion Park provides a beautiful backdrop to play and relax on the banks of the Singapore River and stunning photo ops to boot.
The Basics
When to Get There
The Basics
Spread out over 27,000 square feet (2,500 square meters), Merlion Park is most famous for its centerpiece: the seven-foot (two-meter) Merlion cub fountain at its center. The best way to see the park is on a Singapore city tour with a tour guide who will put the statue into context and allow you to easily explore the many surrounding Singapore attractions, such as Little India, Chinatown, the Jurong Bird Park, the Singapore Botanic Gardens, and the National Orchid Garden. For a different perspective on sightseeing around the Singapore River and the bay, opt for a scenic river cruise that passes the waterfront Merlion Park, which extends out to the Marina Bay Sands.
How to Get to Merlion Park
- Merlion Park is kid-friendly with cultural significance.
- Bring your camera; the park offers a great view of the city and fantastic photo opportunities.
- The park is easily accessed independently or on a guided tour of Singapore city.
The park is centrally located on One Fullerton near the busy Central Business District.
When to Get There
The park is a busy destination around the clock, with access available 24 hours a day all year round.
Address: 1 Fullerton Rd, Singapore
From $ 16
Minami
Minami is a well-known shopping, dining, and entertainment district in Osaka. With retail and nightlife stretching from Semba to Namba Station, Minami is popular with visitors and tourists alike. Lit by dazzling neon signs, including the famous Kani Doraku crab sign, Dotonbori is the most lively and famous part of the Minami area, especially at night. It runs parallel to the canal, and never truly closes, with some restaurants open until morning. For the culture vultures, there are a number of museums, theaters, temples, and shrines to explore among the neon lights and towering shopping malls.
Join a walking tour that covers this part of the city or take an evening food and drink stroll in Shinsaibashi and Namba to take advantage of the local nightlife.
Practical Info
The Minami area is centered around Namba Station, which is actually a collection of multiple stations, including Nankai Namba Station, JR Namba Station, and Kintetsu's Osaka Namba Station. The area is also served by a highway bus terminal.
Did You Know? The Kamigata Ukiyoe Museum in this area is the only museum in the world to have a permanent exhibition of Kamigata Ukiyoe; these are woodblock prints from the Kyoto/Osaka region that typically feature portraits of kabuki actors.
Address: Minami, Osaka, Japan
From $ 48
Mendut Temple
A couple of miles (3.5 kilometers) from the UNESCO World Heritage–listed temple of Borobudur, the charming Mendut Temple (Candi Mendut) features an attached working Buddhist monastery. Built in the early 9th century, the temple and the village that houses it are the starting point for the annual Waisak (Buddha day) celebrations.
The Basics
There is a tiny admission charge to Mendut Temple (Candi Mendut), which also covers admission to Pawon Temple (Candi Pawon), another small temple related to majestic Borobudur. It’s perfectly possible to visit all three temples independently, but many prefer the seamless transportation of a tour or private driver, perhaps with the historic insights of a private guide.
Most Mendut tours bundle this temple with others in the Yogyakarta area: particularly Borobudur and Pawon. Some combine Borobudur, Mendut, and Pawon with the Prambanan complex, which is a lot to take in over a single day. Mendut is also a popular stop on multi-day tours of Yogyakarta and its environs.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Mendut Temple is a must for serious history buffs.
- Candi Mendut is a small and simple temple, around 85 feet (26 meters) in height, but the stone carvings within its inner sanctum are dazzling.
- As with any religious site in South East Asia, it’s worth dressing appropriately—try to cover your shoulders and kneeds.
How to Get There
The best way to reach Mendut Temple independently is by traveling from Yogyakarta to Borobudur then walking or taking a taxi. The 25-mile (40-kilometer) journey from Yogyakarta to Borobudur takes around two hours by bus from the Jombor or Giwangan terminals. Many prefer the ease of an organized tour that starts and finishes at their door and covers off temples such as Pawon and Borobudur, or the comfort of a private driver.
When to Get There
Candi Mendut comes into its own on Waisak (Buddha’s birthday), which falls around May each year on a date set by the lunar calendar—that’s also when the temple is very busy. Assuming you’re combining Mendut with Borobudur, try to avoid weekends and Indonesian public holidays, which is when the Borobudur crowds are at their most hectic.
Waisak at Borobudur and Mendut
Although the Buddhist Sailendra dynasty that built Borobudur and Mendut is long gone, Indonesia boasts a diverse selection of Buddhist traditions. Waisak, a holiday that celebrates Buddha’s birthday, is an official holiday for all of Indonesia. Prayers and processions start from Candi Mendut and progress to Borobudur, and both the temple and the monastery come alive in spectacular fashion.
Address: Jl. Mayor Kusen, Mungkid, Magelang, Jawa Tengah, Indonesia 56512, Indonesia
From $ 64
Ming Tombs (Ming Shisan Ling)
A series of temple-like structures and burial mounds, the Ming Tombs contain the remains of 13 of the 16 emperors who ruled China during the Ming Dynasty (1368 to 1644). Visitors come from all over to see the imperial grandeur of this UNESCO World Heritage site and learn about the cultural importance of ancestor worship.
The Basics
Of the 13 tombs, three are open to the public and accessible via a statue-lined path called the Sacred Way, where the carvings of mythical animals and legendary figures are believed to ward off evil spirits. The Ming Tombs Museum sits just behind the ticket office and offers a short introduction to each of the 13 entombed emperors. Due to their proximity to portions of the Great Wall of China, the Ming Tombs are often included as a stop on tours to the Great Wall at Badaling, Mutianyu, or even Juyongguan.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Ming Tombs are a must-see for history buffs.
- Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to walk; the site is vast and spread out.
- The above-ground tourist routes at the Ming Tombs are wheelchair accessible.
- Small-group and private tours to the Ming Tombs and Great Wall can last upwards of eight hours.
How to Get There
The Ming Tombs are located about 30 miles (50 kilometers) northwest of Beijing. To arrive by public transit, take bus 919 from De Sheng Men Xi station, get off at Chang Ping Xi Guan station, and take bus 314 to the Dingling Tomb or Changling Tomb station.
When to Get There
As one of Beijing’s most popular tourist sites, the Ming Tombs can get quite crowded during the summer tourist season and Chinese public holidays. In summer, arrive first thing in the morning or late in the afternoon to beat the crowds. For the best weather and manageable crowds, plan to visit on a spring or autumn weekday.
Which Tombs to Visit
Of the three tombs open to the public, the Changling tomb built for Emperor Yongle is the largest and best preserved. It’s been described as a Forbidden City in miniature. The Dingling tomb of Emperor Zhu Yijun is most famous for its Underground Palace, where his original thrones still stand. Emperor Longqing’s Zhaoling tomb is the smallest and least visited tomb, notable for its above-ground architecture.
Address: Changchi Road, Changping Qu, Northern China 102213, China
Hours: 8am - 5:30pm
Admission: CNY 20+
From $ 25
Meiji Shrine
The Meiji Jingu (Meiji Shrine) is the most important and popular Shinto shrine in Tokyo. Dedicated to the Emperor Meiji and his wife, Empress Shōken, in 1926, the shrine comprises buildings of worship, gardens, and a forest where each tree was planted by a different citizen of Japan wanting to pay respects to the emperor. A highlight of the shrine is the Meiji Memorial Hall, where visitors find more than 80 murals dedicated to the emperor.
The Basics
As one of Tokyo’s most famous attractions, the Meiji Jingu features in most city tours, including both full- and half-day sightseeing tours of Tokyo, that might also include sights like Asakusa Temple, Senso-ji Temple, Harajuku, the Imperial Palace East Garden, and Tsukiji Fish Market. Entrance to the shrine is free, but you’ll need to pay a small admission charge to enter the shrine’s inner garden.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Meiji Shrine is a must-see for first-time visitors to Tokyo, especially those into religious or traditional Japanese architecture.
- Visit the shrine as part of a private or small-group city tour of Tokyo.
- This is a sacred place so follow the rules of etiquette when visiting a temple.
- Photos and video are prohibited inside the halls.
- Bring along some mosquito repellant, especially during the summer months.
- The shrine is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
How to Get There
The easiest way to get to the Meiji Shrine is by subway. It is a few steps away from the Harajuku and Meiji-jingumae stations.
When to Get There
The Meiji Shrine is open daily throughout the year between sunrise and sunset. From late May to late June, the shrine’s garden is at its most spectacular as its irises begin to bloom. If you’d like to see a traditional ceremony or wedding at the shrine, plan to visit on Sunday.
Festivals at Meiji Shrine
This popular shrine plays host to several festivals throughout the year, the biggest of which is Hatsumode. Commemorating the first visit to the shrine of the new year, the festival sees millions of people crowd into the grounds on January 1. The second Monday in January is Seijin-no-hi (Adults’ Day or Coming of Age Day), when costumed 20-year-olds come to celebrate their coming of age. Young children aged three, five, and seven enjoy their own festival here in mid-November to celebrate their growth and well-being.
Address: 1-1, Kamizono-chō, Tokyo 151-0053, Japan
Hours: Open Daily, hours change every month.
Admission: Shrine admission free. Other attractions within may have admission fees.
From $ 45
Mecca Masjid
Mecca Masjid is one of the oldest mosques in Hyderabad, as well as being one of the largest in the world. Construction of the mosque began in 1617 by the city’s founder, Sultan Mohammad Quli Qutb Shah, but wasn’t complete until 1694 under the rule of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb.
This ancient mosque is a listed heritage building. It’s constructed from granite and features exquisite interiors that few visitors get to see; its large prayer hall can accommodate more than 10,000 men, but women are not allowed inside and tourists can only hope to catch a glimpse from outside. Female visitors may not even be permitted into the mosque’s vast courtyard area if their clothing is not deemed conservative enough.
Several bricks embedded above the main prayer hall's central arch are made with soil from the holy city of Mecca (hence the mosque's name), and verses of the Quran are inscribed on the arches of the building. It is also believed that a strand of the Prophet Mohammed’s hair is kept preserved in a room in the mosque’s courtyard.
Practical Info
Mecca Masjid is situated in the heart of Hyderabad, close to Laad Bazaar, the Charminar monument, and not far from Chowmahalla Palace. It’s easily accessible from various parts of the city by taxi or public bus.
Address: Laad Bazaar Road, Hyderabad, Telangana 500002, India
Hours: 4am-9:30pm daily
From $ 42
Meridian Gate
The Meridian Gate of the Palace Museum is perhaps the most recognizable landmark of the Forbidden City. Built in 1420 and renovated in 1801, the Meridian Gate is the largest and southernmost of the Palace Museum’s gates; currently, it’s the sole entrance into the Forbidden City. When the imperial family occupied the palace, the emperor would sit at the top of the Meridian Gate to proclaim sentences on prisoners of war brought before him.
The structure is made up of five towers, meant to resemble a phoenix in flight when viewed from above. The doorway through the central tower was for the Ming and Qing Dynasty emperors exclusively, though the empress was allowed to pass through this central gate on her wedding day. The door directly to the west was for the royal family, while the one to the east was for imperial officials. The final two doors were only used during ceremonies at the palace.
The structure is made up of five towers, meant to resemble a phoenix in flight when viewed from above. The doorway through the central tower was for the Ming and Qing Dynasty emperors exclusively, though the empress was allowed to pass through this central gate on her wedding day. The door directly to the west was for the royal family, while the one to the east was for imperial officials. The final two doors were only used during ceremonies at the palace.
Address: 4 Jingshan Qianjie, Beijing, China
Hours: Open: Apr 1-Oct 31: 8:30am-5pm; Jul 7-Aug 26: 8am-5pm; Nov 1-Mar 31: 8:30am-4:30pm. Closed Monday afternoons except holidays.
Admission: Adult: Apr 1 - Oct 31: CNY 60; Nov 1 - Mar 31: CNY 40. Student: CNY 20
From $ 46
Mehrauli Archaeological Park
The Mehrauli Archaeological Park in New Delhi is home to the crumbling ruins of tombs and palaces that date back to early medieval times and up to the 19th century. The park is sprawled across 200 acres and is an atmospheric site that is less crowded than the Qutub Minar World Heritage site nearby.
One of the main attractions at the park comes in the form of two monuments that sit together – the Jamali Kamali Mosque and Tomb. The intricately chiselled ceiling of the mosque is well worth a peek inside. There is also a striking 16th-century stairwell within the park, along with the crumbling tombs of Balban and Quli Khan.
Practical Info
The nearest metro station is Qutub Minar on the Yellow Line. There’s no official sign for the park, just one that reads “Delhi Development Authority” outside the main entrance gate.
Address: Mehrauli Gurgaon Road, New Delhi, India
From $ 18
Mekong River Delta
Often referred to as the 'rice bowl of Asia' due to its plethora of emerald rice paddy fields, the Mekong River Delta is surrounded by fertile lands that showcase nature’s riches. On Vietnam’s mighty Mekong, sleepy floating communities live surrounded by an abundance of tropical fruits, buffalo wallowing in paddy fields, and mangroves rich with birdlife.
Attractions Along the Mekong Delta
The commotion of Ho Chi Minh City is easily forgotten as you float down the mud-brown waters of the delta. Highlights include the Cai Rang Floating Market, the largest of its kind in the area, where boats swell with fresh coconuts and exotic produce, and the UNESCO-listed Can Gio Mangrove Biosphere Reserve, where the river meets the South China Sea.
In the Thua Thua area, the delta transforms into narrow canals that snake past agricultural villages famed for their coconut palms and production of whiskey and wine. Travelers seeking serenity will be delighted by Ben Tre, where a sleepy waterfront and languid pace provide a welcome retreat. The region is also home to two spectacular religious landmarks: Cao Dai Temple and Cai Be Cathedral, whose distinct styles range from vibrant to austere.
How to Visit with Viator
In order to understand Vietnam’s past and present, a visit to the Mekong River Delta is essential. Travelers can combine a ride through Saigon’s canals with a sunset Mekong River cruise, or take a private tour of the unspoiled countryside in southern Vietnam. If you have more time to spare, set out on a multi-day tour to gain comprehensive insight into local life in the Mekong River Delta’s rural settlements—many longer tours also cruise through Thailand, Laos, and Cambodia.
Insider Tips
- The famous floating markets of the Mekong River Delta are in full swing in early morning; if you’d like to attend, choose a tour that departs around sunrise from Hanoi, Vinh Long, or Ho Chi Minh City.
- Bear in mind that a full day on the Mekong Delta can be hot and unshaded, so it’d be wise to bring a hat, some sunscreen, and plenty of water.
Address: Southern Vietnam, Vietnam
From $ 9
Melaka Portuguese Square
Sometimes referred to as "Mini Lisbon," Melaka Portuguese Square is a hub of Portuguese culture and community in the city—a symbol of Portuguese–Malay heritage. Bars, a few small museums, and restaurants serving up Portuguese fare line the courtyard and surrounding Eurasian village (kampung).
The Basics
As one of many notable landmarks in the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Melaka Portuguese Square is typically a stop on sightseeing tours and day trip from Kuala Lumpur, which also usually include Cheng Hoon Teng Temple, St. Paul’s Church, Stadthuys, Christ Church, and the Kampung Kling Mosque.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The square is a must-see for foodies and those with an interest in Malaysia’s colonial history.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes for exploring the surrounding neighborhood.
- Come hungry; the neighborhood is known for its excellent seafood and Portuguese cuisine.
How to Get There
Melaka Portuguese Square is situated east of the city center. The best way to get there and back is by taxi or with an organized tour.
When to Get There
The square is open all the time, but it’s at its liveliest in the evenings and on weekends when locals and visitors alike come to dine out and take in traditional performances in the square. A bulletin board in the square lists upcoming cultural events.
Festivals in Portuguese Square
Each year, the Portuguese community in Melaka celebrates the Feast of Saint Peter (San Pedro) on June 29 with live music, food, and dancing in the square. Another good time to visit is during Christmas season, when local residents decorate their homes and streets with nativity scenes and colorful lights.
Address: Portuguese Square, Jalan Daranjo, Melaka 75050, Malaysia
From $ 28
Mekong River
The Mekong River, the 12th-longest river in the world at 2,700 miles (4,345 kilometers), is the main artery of Southeast Asia. Its flowing waters are the beating pulse for a region that includes the fertile Mekong Delta around Vietnam's Ho Chi Minh City, the scenic hills of Laos, and the jungle-lined waterways of Thailand and Cambodia.
The Basics
River tours in small traditional boats offer visitors a chance to experience the culture and communities that thrive along the Mekong’s waters. Opt for a day tour from Ho Chi Minh City and cruise around the floating markets of the Mekong Delta; discover the islands along the Mekong and Tonle Sap rivers on a half-day tour from Phnom Penh; or cruise across the border from Thailand to Laos.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Boat tours operating on the river include small wooden motor boats, traditional sampans, and speedboats, while rafting and tubing are also possible in some sections.
- Most boats provide little shade, so be sure to bring a hat, sun protection, and mosquito repellent.
- Some boat cruises may be wheelchair accessible, but it’s best to check in advance.
How to Get There
The Mekong River is accessible from several major cities, including Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam, Vientiane in Laos, Chiang Mai in Thailand, and Phnom Penh in Cambodia. While public transport runs to some of the larger towns along the Mekong, the easiest way to travel is as part of a guided tour.
When to Get There
Mekong cruises run all year-round, but the most popular time to visit is between September and March, when the high water levels mean more choice for boat trips, floating markets, and floating villages. The wet season runs from May until August, but it’s still possible to visit during this time and the weather is still warm—just pack a rain poncho as the open-air boats offer no protection from showers.
Cruising the Mekong Delta
A Mekong River cruise offers a fascinating glimpse into rural life, gliding past lush rice paddies and fruit orchards, watching fishermen cast handmade nets in search of the day’s catch, and sampling tropical fruits and coconut candies at the floating markets. The river is also home to some of the largest freshwater fish in the world, and lucky travelers may even spot one of the rare Irrawaddy dolphins that live in the Mekong’s waters.
Address: Southeast Asia, Vietnam
From $ 65
Mingun
Found nearly at the exact center point on the map of Myanmar, the town of Mingun is famous for the Mingun Pahtodawgyi, which is an unfinished pagoda that was being constructed in the 1790s. The construction on the pagoda was never completed because of a claim made by an astrologist that as soon as the construction was completed, the ruler, King Bodawpaya, would die. Visitors to Mingun will also notice the cracks that run through the rock. These cracks are the result of a massive earthquake that hit the town in the 1830s. Travelers are welcome to climb the unfinished building and although there is obviously little to see in the rock itself, there are stunning views of the region and the impressive Mya Theindan pagoda below to be had.
Local tour guides claim that the pagoda is actually the world's largest unfinished stupa and that if it had ever been finished, it would be the largest completed one. Finished and very impressive is the Hsinbyume Pagoda, a pure white structure with seven terraces and many niches filled with mythical monsters, which was dedicated to the favorite wife of a king. Along with the pagodas, there is also a ringing bell that was cast during the same period on the orders of King Bodawpaya. Fitting in with the realm of “everything is bigger in Mingun,” the bell is the largest ringing bell in the world.
Practical Info
Most tourists make their way to Mingun from Mandalay on a day trip. The 11-kilometer boat trip from Mandalay takes between 45 minutes and an hour. Organizing a trip is fairly easy as there are constantly boats traveling up river to the town and beyond.
Address: Mingun, Myanmar
From $ 25
Merdeka Square (Dataran Merdeka)
Impeccable Merdaka Square - or Dataran Merdeka - was a cricket ground in colonial times. The cricket ground was overlooked by the Royal Selangor Club which housed a club for the colonial rulers. When independence for Malaysia was declared, it was here that the Union Jack flag was lowered and the Malay flag was first raised. The flag still flies on a massive flagpole on the edge of the square.
The square is surrounded by historic buildings, the most majestic of which is the Sultan Abdul Samad building which housed the British administration and now houses the Ministry for Heritage, Culture and the Arts. The Moorish style building is dominated by a tall clock tower nicknamed "Big Ben."
The square is now the focus of many of the city’s celebrations and the Independence Day festival is held here on August 31st.
Practical Info
Merdaka Square is easily reached by catching the train to Masjid Jamek and walking a short distance across the river.
Address: Jalan Raja, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Hours: Open daily
From $ 8
Miho Museum
The Miho Museum is situated in the hills of Shigaraki, around an hour’s drive southeast of Kyoto. The museum is named after Koyama Mihoko, who founded the museum and who also happens to be one of the richest women in Japan.
The architecture of the Miho Museum is the first thing to strike visitors as they approach the building via a dramatic causeway. The mainly glass structure somehow blends seamlessly into its natural surroundings, and this theme continues inside the museum, with the use of warm stone and glass - the latter of which providing beautiful views of the surrounding valleys.
The exhibits inside the Miho Museum are that of Mihoko’s private antique collection - mainly pieces from ancient civilizations, such as the Romans and Egyptians, along with a number of Asian cultures. The main exhibition changes every year or so, and temporary exhibits change every few months.
Practical Info
To reach the Miho Museum, take the JR Tokaido Line from Kyoto Station to Ishiyama Station and then take bus number 150 from bus stop three straight to the museum. The bus will arrive at a reception area, where you can buy your tickets before making your way to the main museum entrance, either on foot or via the free museum shuttle.
Address: 300 Shigarakicho Tashiro, Koka, Shiga Prefecture 529-1814, Japan
Hours: Tue-Sun 10am-5pm
Admission: Adults: 1,100Yen, Youth: 800Yen or 300Yen
From $ 10
Mehrangarh Fort
Mehrangarh Fort is a huge ancient fort located in Jodhpur in the state of Rajasthan. It's one of the largest forts in India and was built in the mid-15th century by Rao Jodha. The fort sits on a rocky hill presiding some 125 meters above the city, with the structure merging with the rock on which it stands. Still run by the Jodhpur royal family to this day, Mehrangarh Fort is filled with a strong sense of history and legend.
Enclosed by thick, imposing walls, the fort complex contains a museum, courthouses, gardens, and several magnificent palaces with vast courtyards and elaborate architecture. Among the royal residences are the Phool Mahal (Flower Palace), which was used for dance performances and features beguiling stained-glass windows, and Jhanki Mahal (Queen’s Palace), where there’s a colorful display of the cradles of former rulers.
The approach to the fort is guarded by a series of seven giant gates, some more famous than others. The main entrance is Jai Pol (or Gate of Victory), which was built by Maharaja Man Singh at the beginning of the 19th century to celebrate his victory over Jaipur and Bikaner armies. Past the cafe and museum ticket office, the Dodh Kamgra Pol still bears the marks of cannonball attacks, before the route leads through Imritia Pol, and then Loha Pol, with its palm imprints made by the widows of Maharaja Man Singh when they left the palace to commit sati on his funeral pyre.
Practical Info
It’s about a 300-meter walk or a very winding auto-rickshaw journey from the old city to the entrance of Mehrangarh Fort.
Address: Fateh Pol Road, Jodhpur, Rajasthan 342006, India
Hours: 9am-5am daily
Admission: Fort entry: free / Museum entry: Rs. 400
From $ 21