Asia Action & adventure, Bird, Landscape + People pictures

• World

From the fury of a Muay Thai kickboxing bout, to the gentle pad of monk’s sandals at Wat Pho Temple, this “City of Angels” balances chaos and calm.

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.

Stunning city views, an aquarium, shops and restaurants are part of this futuristic tower that looms over the southern banks of the Han River.

Seeing this garden in a picture may seem like a photo effect, but it isn’t a trick. Nature, with some human help, has created a unique place that must be seen.  

Take incredible photos against the unmistakable background of this bridge, which is an architectural triumph that is stunning by night and by day. 

Named after a silver-coin mint, this district has a long association with affluence. Today it’s where you’ll find some of Japan’s most upmarket labels, restaurants and galleries.

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

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. 

Enjoy a traditional tea ceremony, feed wild monkeys and explore World Heritage-listed temples and shrines in this historically rich Japanese city.

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

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

The most iconic view of Sapporo is from the observation deck of this 480-foot (150-meter) tower, which looks out over Odori Park.

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. 

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

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

Choose between salt water and fresh water at this gorgeous white-sand beach, which has ocean on one side and a scenic lake on the other. 

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

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