Top 6 Asian Destinations to Visit in 2026

October 23, 2025 | 09:44 am

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - For those planning to travel in 2026, the list of 25 global locations from National Geographic can be an inspiration. The 'Best of the World 2026' list offers a variety of options destinations that suit the interests and accessibility for all travelers.

From the list, a number of destinations in Asia stand out for offering authentic experiences, from ancient historical heritage to rarely explored natural adventures. These include Beijing, South Korea, the Philippines, and Uzbekistan.

Here are the Asian countries included in 'Best of the World 2026' by National Geographic:

1. Beijing

One of the most eye-catching is Beijing, China, described as an epicenter of history with new travel conveniences. The city is now more accessible due to the extension of visa-free stays for up to 30 days for 47 countries, including the United States, as well as the integration of foreign credit cards in public transportation. Visitors can explore the Beijing Central Axis, a five-mile line of imperial buildings, recently designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, including the Temple of Heaven, Tiananmen Square, and the Forbidden City.

2. Manila

In the Philippines, Metro Manila emerges as a diverse culinary paradise, blending Spanish, Chinese, and Malay influences with local ingredients. The year 2026 will be a special moment with the release of the first Michelin Guide for the country, encouraging tourists to explore night markets like Tutuban to taste fish balls or halo-halo, and restaurants like Toyo Eatery, serving kamayan feasts of seafood and pork on banana leaves, eaten with hands. Chinatown in Binondo is also a must-visit to try hopia and moon cakes at legendary stores.

3. Black Sea Coast

Turkey's Black Sea Coast, stretching between the Pontic Mountains and the sea, is offered as an adventurous alternative to the bustling Aegean and Mediterranean coasts. This area is ideal for year-round activities, from surfing to skiing on the same day. Cities like Samsun and Trabzon offer local delicacies such as kuymak (cornmeal and cheese) and trips to the fourth-century Sumela Monastery with Byzantine frescoes. Zip-lining in Ayder and trekking in the Kackar Mountains National Park add adrenaline.

4. Khiva

Khiva in Uzbekistan rises as a less prominent Silk Road city compared to Samarkand or Bukhara, with high-speed train access from Tashkent cutting travel time in half. The UNESCO-listed Itchan Kala fortress, with its wooden-pillared mosques and lavish palaces, is now supported by the first five-star hotel, Mercure Khiva, opened in October 2026. Festivals like the Lazgi International Dance and Pahlavon Mahmud Strongmen Games add cultural flair.

5. Yamagata

Yamagata Prefecture in Japan becomes a choice for those seeking natural tranquility without the crowds of Tokyo or Kyoto. Less than 1% of Japanese tourists visit this region, known for its 'snow monsters' on Mount Zao, frozen cedar trees forming mythical creatures. Onsen in Ginzan and waterfall meditation with mountain ascetics offer spiritual experiences.

6. Dongseo Trail

Lastly, the Dongseo Trail in South Korea, a 848-kilometer coast-to-coast route inspired by the Camino de Santiago, will be mostly open in 2026. Crossing 23 national parks, this trail is suitable for day hikes or multi-day treks, with affordable accommodations like minbakjip. Stretching from Uljin in the east to Anmyeondo Island in the west, this is the first opportunity for international tourists to conquer this new trail.

PUTRI AZ ZAHRA SUHERMAN

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