If you plan your trips with a camera in one hand and Instagram in the other, then this book is for you. Asia, with its spectacular scenery, rich civilizations, and stunning architecture, is an ideal location for travel photography.
Whether it’s the serene blue waters of the Philippines or the busy urban lights of Tokyo, every location on this list is a visual feast. Here’s our perspective on Asia’s top ten most photogenic destinations that should be on your bucket list.
- Bali, Indonesia
Bali is a photographer’s delight, with its tropical vistas and spiritual charm. Begin your day in Tegallalang Rice Terraces, where the sunlight turns the fields golden. For stunning coastal photos, visit Uluwatu Temple, which is set on a rock above the roaring waves.
Don’t miss Sekumpul Waterfall, one of the island’s most stunning waterfalls, or the renowned Gate of Heaven at Lempuyang Temple, which has Mount Agung in the background. From ancient temples to lush jungles and peaceful beaches, Bali has postcard-worthy scenery at every turn.
Top Spots to Capture:
- Tegallalang Rice Terraces
- Uluwatu Temple
- Sekumpul Waterfall
- Gate of Heaven
- Kyoto, Japan
Photographers should not miss Kyoto, a city that combines seasonal beauty with old world charm. Explore the calm Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, where tall green stalks form a tunnel of light and shadow in the natural world. Capture the vivid colors of autumn maple leaves or spring cherry blossoms.
With its thousands of vermilion torii gates creating meandering pathways through the hills, the famous Fushimi Inari Shrine is not to be missed. Kyoto provides several vistas that seem to have been taken from a postcard, whether it’s classic teahouses, serene gardens, or cultural festivities.
Top Spots to Capture:
- Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
- Fushimi Inari Shrine
- Philosopher’s Path
- Kiyomizu-dera Temple
- Cappadocia, Turkey
Cappadocia looks like it belongs on another planet, with its unique rock formations and dreamlike sunrises. Wake up early to capture the sky filled with colourful hot air balloons floating over the ancient fairy chimneys. Explore the mysterious underground cities or stay in a cave hotel for atmospheric interiors.
The surreal landscape changes with the light, offering golden hour glows and deep shadow play. Whether you’re standing atop a panoramic viewpoint or drifting in a balloon basket, every angle in Cappadocia is a photographic masterpiece.
Top Spots to Capture:
- Göreme Valley
- Fairy Chimneys
- Uchisar Castle
- Hot Air Balloon Sunrise
- Singapore
Singapore is a visual playground where ultra-modern meets heritage charm. Capture the futuristic skyline from Marina Bay Sands, or visit Gardens by the Bay to photograph the glowing Supertree Grove. By day, wander through Haji Lane, full of colourful murals and quirky cafés perfect for street shots.
At night, the light and water show at Marina Bay is a must shoot experience. Don’t miss Chinatown and Little India for vibrant culture and detail rich photos. Whether you’re snapping city lights or lush green pockets, Singapore delivers. Explore guided night tours included in most curated Singapore packages.
Top Spots To Capture:
- Marina Bay Sands
- Gardens by the Bay
- Haji Lane
- Chinatown & Little India
- Bagan, Myanmar
Bagan is a dream destination for photographers, offering over 2,000 ancient temples scattered across a sunbaked plain. The magic happens at sunrise, when hot air balloons drift above the landscape and golden light casts long, dramatic shadows across the temples.
Explore by e-bike to find your own hidden photo spots. Each structure tells a story, with intricate carvings, towering pagodas, and worn bricks glowing warmly under the sun. It’s a surreal blend of history and serenity that feels like stepping back in time.
Top Spots To Capture:
- Shwesandaw Pagoda
- Ananda Temple
- Dhammayangyi Temple
- Sunrise Balloon Viewpoints
- Luang Prabong, Laos
This quiet gem in Laos offers a peaceful escape filled with soulful photo opportunities. Wake up early to witness the sacred alms giving ceremony, where rows of saffron-robed monks walk silently through the town’s ancient streets. Don’t miss the stunning Kuang Si Falls, with turquoise tiered pools and lush greenery.
Wander the colonial French architecture and riverside markets to discover rustic charm at every corner. The golden glow of Mount Phousi at sunset is perfect for panoramic shots. In Luang Prabang, it’s not about flashy visuals but capturing moments that feel pure and timeless.
Top Spots To Capture:
- Alms-Giving Ceremony
- Kuang si Falls
- Mount Phousi
- Colonial Old Town
- Petra, Jordan
Petra is one of the world’s most cinematic destinations, carved into rose red cliffs and steeped in mystery. Begin your photo journey with the iconic walk through the narrow Siq, where towering rock walls create a dramatic lead up to the awe inspiring Treasury.
Arrive at sunrise or sunset for soft, golden light that adds depth and contrast to your shots. Venture further to explore the Monastery and Royal Tombs, where fewer crowds reward you with wide angle photo ops. Petra’s unique textures, earthy tones, and scale make it a favourite for photographers looking to capture ancient beauty.
Top Spots To Capture:
- The Treasury
- The Siq
- The Monastery
- Royal Tombs
- Halong Bay, Vietnam
Halong Bay is a surreal seascape that seems straight out of a painting, with limestone karsts rising from calm emerald waters. A cruise through the bay offers countless vantage points, especially at sunrise when mist blankets the cliffs for a mystical feel.
Kayak through hidden lagoons or explore floating fishing villages for intimate, offbeat shots. The contrast between jagged rocks, glassy waters and golden skies creates perfect natural compositions. Whether you’re on a deck or paddling quietly below, Halong Bay’s beauty never disappoints.
Top Spots To Capture:
- Sung Sot Cave
- Ti Top Island Viewpoint
- Floating Fishing Villages
- Sunrise from Cruise Deck
- Penang, Malaysia
Penang is a vibrant fusion of heritage, colour, and creativity that makes every corner photo worthy. In George Town, colonial facades blend with murals and vintage shophouses, offering an urban canvas of textures and stories. The world-famous street art, especially the works by Ernest Zacharevic, turns alleys into open-air galleries.
Visit Kek Lok Si Temple, one of Southeast Asia’s largest, for dazzling lanterns and sweeping city views. Don’t miss the Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion and Penang Hill for elevated panoramas. If you’re planning your trip, the average Malaysia tour package price is quite pocket-friendly, making Penang a must shoot destination.
Top Spots To Capture:
- George Town Street Art
- Kek Lok Si Temple
- Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion
- Penang Hill
- Phuket, Thailand
Phuket is a paradise of contrasts, offering everything from turquoise waters to vibrant street life. Head to Phang Nga Bay for classic longtail boat shots against dramatic limestone cliffs. The sunsets at Promthep Cape are fiery and unforgettable perfect for golden hour magic.
Wander through Old Phuket Town with its colourful Sino Portuguese buildings, quirky cafés, and markets for a splash of culture and charm. Beyond the beach parties, peaceful spots like Big Buddha Hill offer panoramic views of the island. With variety at every turn, Phuket is a tropical canvas waiting to be captured.
Top Spots To Capture:
- Phang Nga Bay
- Promthep Cape
- Old Phuket Town
- Big Buddha Hill
Asia is rich in contrast, old and new, wild and urban, sacred and chaotic, making it a goldmine for travel photography. Whether you’re planning your next getaway or just filling up your dream board, these destinations bring your photos to life. So charge your camera, clear your SD cards, and let your next adventure be Picture Perfect.
